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About Us
Department of Arizona
Department of Arizona
Military Order of the Purple Heart

About Military Order of the Purple Heart - AZ (MOPHAZ)

Combat- wounded veterans.
​United by service.
​Dedicated to community.

The Military Order of the Purple Heart Department of Arizona (MOPHAZ) is a veteran-led organization composed of Purple Heart recipients — men and women who have been wounded in combat while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. 

​Our Mission is to foster an environment of mutual support among combat-wounded veterans, champion veteran causes, and build stronger communities through leadership, education, and outreach.


Who We Are

Patriots

Purple Heart recipients who have sacrificed in defense of our country.

Volunteers.

Actively serving our local communities through events, education, and support programs.

Advocates.

Working with civic leaders and lawmakers to improve the lives of veterans and their families.

What we Do

Recognition

Recognize and support fellow Purple Heart recipients. We work with Arizona cities and towns to establish official Purple Heart Communities, raising public awareness and ensuring our combat-wounded veterans are honored and remembered throughout the year at the local level.

Advocacy

Advocate for veteran-focused policies at the state level. Our legislative team works directly with lawmakers to push for improvements in healthcare, education, and benefits that impact veterans and their families.

Youth Engagement

Provide scholarships and awards to JROTC and ROTC cadets. We recognize leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to service, encouraging the next generation of military leaders across Arizona.

Outreach

Participate in outreach to ensure no veteran feels forgotten. We connect with hospitals, attend community events, and collaborate with partner organizations to reach veterans across Arizona.

Department Leadership 2024/2025

Keith Gray

Commander

Jimi Sallmen

Senior Vice Commander

John Moore

Junior Vice Commander

Larry Leighton

Adjutant

Jim Starkman

Finance Officer

Cody Phipps

Sergeant at Arms

Vacant

Judge Advocate

Vacant 

Legislative Officer

Vacant

Americanism Officer

Vacant

Inspector

John Blehm

Chaplain

Cody Phipps

Cdr Chapter 442

Jason Duren

Cdr Chapter 472

Larry Leighton

Cdr Chapter 691

Rodger Ely

Cdr Chapter 793

Michael Overmeyer

Cdr Chapter 2560

Download MOPHAZ Department Constitution and Bylaws