Chamberlain in Brule County, South Dakota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Purple Heart Memorial Highway
On May 24, 2012, the South Dakota DOT Transportation Commission officially declared Interstate 90 from the Minnesota border to the Wyoming border as South Dakota's segment of the national Purple Heart Trail. The Purple Heart Trail was established in 1992 by the Military Order of the Purple Heart to be a symbolic trail throughout all 50 states and U.S. territories to commemorate and honor all men and women who have been wounded or killed in combat while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The Trail originates in Mt. Vernon, Virginia, which is the burial location of George Washington. The Purple Heart Medal is specifically a combat decoration and is our nations' oldest military medal. It was first created by General George Washington in 1782 and was known as the Badge of Military Merit. The Purple Heart Medal is awarded to members of the armed forces of the United States who have either been wounded or killed in action by an enemy of the United States. The purpose of the Purple Heart Trail is to create a symbolic and honorary system of roads, highways, bridges, and other monuments that give tribute to the men and women who have received the Purple Heart Medal.
"As you travel the Purple Heart Trails, please take a moment to remember the sacrifices that have been paid for our nation's freedom."
Topics and series. This memorial is listed in this topic list: Roads & Vehicles. In addition, it is included in the Military Order of the Purple Heart series list.
Location. 43° 47.177′ N, 99° 20.345′ W. Marker is in Chamberlain, South Dakota, in Brule County. Memorial can be reached from Interstate 90 at milepost 264. Marker is at the parking lot of the rest area/overlook. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Chamberlain SD 57325, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Sojourn at Camp Pleasant (a few steps from this marker); State Capitol - Pierre (a few steps from this marker); World's Only Corn Palace - Mitchell (a few steps from this marker); Mount Rushmore National Memorial (a few steps from this marker); The Making & Meaning of Dignity (within shouting distance of this marker); Lewis & Clark Memorial Bridge at Chamberlain (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Dignity (about 300 feet away); Lewis and Clark Bicentennial 1804-2004 (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Chamberlain.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 13, 2017. It was originally submitted on February 13, 2017, by Ruth VanSteenwyk of Aberdeen, South Dakota. This page has been viewed 486 times since then and 58 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 13, 2017, by Ruth VanSteenwyk of Aberdeen, South Dakota. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.