Swansea to honor Purple Heart Day with rescheduled event involving battle between Police and Fire

SWANSEA — Town Administrator Mallory Aronstein and Director of Veteran’s Services Kevin Serpa report that the Town of Swansea’s second annual Purple Heart Day softball game will now be played this week.

Due to expected Inclement weather, the Town of Swansea’s second annual Purple Heart Day softball game will now take place on Friday, August 18 at Veterans Memorial Park, 347 G.A.R. Highway starting at 5:45 p.m.

Purple Heart Day will be recognized locally with a softball game between Swansea firefighters and police officers.

The event will begin with the singing of the National Anthem by Abby Medeiros and the Posting of the Colors by the American Legion Post 303 and Boy Scout Troop 303.

The first pitch will be thrown at 5:45 p.m. by Retired Army Major, Vietnam veteran and Purple Heart recipient Ronald Cabral. Cabral received a Purple Heart after being wounded in Vietnam. Cabral is a Swansea resident and Swansea’s 2023 Memorial Day Parade Marshal.

The Snack Shack will be open to the public during the game for those who would like to purchase food or drinks. Swansea’s Aroma Joe’s will be available for beverage purchases like coffee, lemonade and a popular energy drink called Rush. There will be a hot dog and ice cream truck provided by DM Goods. Informational tables will be set up for the Municipal Complex Project, Swansea’s Free Public Library and The Stoico/FIRSTFED YMCA.

All are welcome and encouraged to attend!

The Town of Swansea officially became a purple heart community in 2021 by a voted resolution of the Board of Selectmen. As a result, the Purple Heart trail traverses through Swansea, with signs posted throughout the Town recognizing the special distinction.

Purple Heart Day is observed each year on Aug. 7 and is a time for Americans to remember and honor the brave men and women who were wounded on the battlefield or lost their lives serving our country.