Veterans Fight To Revive Cuyahoga County Purple Heart Chapter

Ron Mohr and Harry Crawford are on a quest to help out other veterans.

The men have been working hard to help veterans by re-establishing a Military Order of the Purple Heart chapter in Cuyahoga County.

The Purple Heart is one of the most respected military awards, given to those who are killed or wounded in battle.

Mohr and Crawford — both of Solon — are Vietnam veterans and Purple Heart Recipients. Crawford said that there once was a chapter in the county, known as Chapter 111, but that it's been de-activated for some time.

Crawford contacted his councilwoman, Toni Richmond, who got him and Mohr in touch with Solon Mayor Susan Drucker, who has supported the effort.

On Tuesday, Drucker the first in Cuyahoga County. Mohr, Crawford and other veterans were on hand for a ceremony.

"It's exhilirating to be here with other Purple Heart Veterans," Mohr said. "I think this is a tribute not only to Purple Heart veterans, but all veterans."

Crawford said that they need to have at least 12 members to start a chapter, which shouldn't be a problem.

"Odds are that there are a significant number in Solon and Cuyahoga County," he said.

Both men said that there goal is to provide an avenue to help veterans navigate the sometimes tricky maze that is the VA system, and to share information about benefits and other topics important to veterans.

This is especially important with more veterans returning from wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Crawford said.

"We just want to get the ball rolling so we can become more actively involved with veterans in Cuyahoga County," he said.

Are you a Purple Heart recipient living in Cuyahoga County? Contact Mohr or Crawford.

Mohr can be reached at 440-667-2078 or hskyd@me.com.

Crawford can be reached at 440-542-2449 or hcc1050@att.net