The effort to become a Purple Heart City began when Steve Byrd approached the City Manager with the idea of Coalgate becoming a Purple Heart City. Jackie Holt, City Manager pursued his request. On August 26,2024 members of the City Council were part of the Proclamation proclaiming the City Council and all the Citizens of Coalgate as a city that appreciates the sacrifices the Purple Heart recipients made in defending our freedoms and acknowledge those men and women for their courage by showing our support and honor.