Legislature busy as session nears end

INDIANAPOLIS | The Indiana House and Senate met intermittently for more than 10 hours Thursday, approving changes to legislation recommended by conference committees and sending those measures on to the governor for his signature or veto.

Schererville designates road as part of Purple Heart Trail

SCHERERVILLE | The section of U.S. 41 that passes through Schererville will be used to honor wounded veterans.

Highland designates part of Indy Blvd. for wounded vets

HIGHLAND | The Highland Town Council has accepted two signs that designate Indianapolis Boulevard as part of the Purple Heart Memorial Highway.

Battery charge dismissed in alleged attack on disabled veteran

HOBART | A battery charge against a Hobart man accused of attacking a disabled veteran has been dismissed, police said.

Highland soldier returns from fourth tour of duty to avenue of flags, thanks

HAMMOND | Two Purple Heart medals and four tours of duty later, a Highland man returned home to a hero's welcome Wednesday following his service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Highland soldier returns from fourth tour of duty to avenue of flags, thanks

Sgt. Michael Haney's mother, Lori Haney, gets a hug Wednesday from an Indiana Patriot Guard Rider during a welcome-home celebration for her son at family's home in Highland.

Highland soldier returns from fourth tour of duty to avenue of flags, thanks

Sgt. Michael Haney's family dog waits Wednesday at the window of his home in Highland.

Highland soldier returns from fourth tour of duty to avenue of flags, thanks

Sgt. Michael Haney gets a hug Wednesday from sister Ashley Haney during a welcome-home celebration at Bone Dry Bar and Grill in Highland. Indiana Patriot Guard Riders treated Sgt. Haney to a beer after escorting him home.

Hammond soldier receives Purple Heart for combat injuries

VALPARAISO | Family, friends and some two dozen fellow guardsmen gave U.S. Army Spc. Doug Rachowicz a standing ovation Friday as he was awarded the Purple Heart medal.

Funeral honors man of humor, dedication and service

CROWN POINT | Humorous one-liners, acts of wartime heroism and a bowtie worn while mowing the lawn were all eclectic remembrances shared Wednesday at the funeral of Crown Point's Charles Swisher.

Purple Heart recipients sought

PORTAGE | While nearly each community in Porter County has its own American Legion post or Veterans of Foreign War chapter, there is no organized group that recognizes another segment of veterans -- Purple Heart recipients.