Farmington Becomes A "Purple Heart Community" : With Bill Simkins, Matthew Simms, & Scott Michlin

The Scott Michlin Morning Program

Thursday, May 14, 2026 - 14 minutes

Farmington, New Mexico, is set to officially become a Purple Heart City during a Memorial Day weekend ceremony honoring wounded veterans and Purple Heart recipients. The event was organized by local veteran Bill Simkins and Purple Heart recipient Matthew Sims, who helped bring the designation to the community after visiting the area during a veterans retreat.
Sims, a retired Army combat medic and three-time Purple Heart recipient, shared his experiences serving in Iraq and explained the importance of communities recognizing and supporting veterans’ sacrifices. The ceremony, open to the public, will feature speakers, flag ceremonies, a 21-gun salute, and celebrations of Farmington’s strong support for veterans and military families