08/07/2024
The Purple Heart Medal weighs about an ounce – but it carries an immense weight of sacrifice, courage and honor.
Purple Heart Day, observed annually on 7 August, honors the brave men and women who were either wounded on the battlefield or lost their lives while serving in the U.S. military. The day is set aside for Americans to remember and honor those who valiantly represented their country and were decorated with a Purple Heart in the name of the President. It is also a time to highlight the rich history and significance of the Purple Heart medal.
This year, on the 10th anniversary of Purple Heart Day, the Office of Enterprise Management (OEM) is observing Purple Heart Day to ensure that the sacrifices of these heroes are never forgotten and that their courage continues to inspire future generations.
The History of the Purple Heart
While Purple Heart Day is just a decade old, the origins of the Purple Heart medal date back to the American Revolutionary War when General George Washington established the Badge of Military Merit, an award intended to recognize meritorious service, on 7 August 1782, there was a lack of funds in the Continental Army at the time so the award was a way to honor enlisted and deserving people. The badge was presented to soldiers for “any singularly meritorious action” and was designed with a piece of silk bound through it with a thin edge of silver.
Badge of Military Merit
Washington only gave out three of the badges himself and, instead, authorized subordinates to issue them as they saw fit. The Badge of Merit faded from use but was revived and relaunched in 1932; this time as the Purple Heart. As well as honoring those wounded in combat, this iteration of the Purple Heart recognized commendable action. It was in 1944 that the policy was tweaked slightly and the Purple Heart was given the purpose we know it for today, specifically to honor those who have been wounded or lost their lives in the line of duty.
During the Revolutionary War, Continental Army soldiers William Brown and Elijah Churchill were the first soldiers to receive the Badge of Military Merit, the predecessor to the Purple Heart. William was most likely bestowed the honor for his service during the Siege of Yorktown, while Elijah was recognized for his gallantry at a battle near Fort St. George on Long Island, NY. The first service member to be given the modern-day Purple Heart was Army General Douglas MacArthur for his service in the Pacific theater during World War II.
Purple Heart Day Origins
Purple Heart Day was first observed 7 August 2014 and has been honored every year since. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the bravery of those who have fought for the U.S. and to ensure that their courage is never forgotten. While it’s not a federal holiday, there are many ways to honor Purple Heart recipients. Major League Baseball teams recognize local Purple Heart recipients during games on 7 August. Also, regional government offices pause to recognize the service and sacrifice of their local heroes. And veteran and military organizations hold remembrance meetings for fallen heroes and special events to thank soldiers, veterans, and Purple Heart recipients.
Purple Heart Facts
The color of the Purple Heart was chosen to represent bravery.
The Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration still presented to service members.
Over 2,000,000 Purple Heart medals have been awarded (including eligible casualties in World War I who may not have been awarded the Purple Heart) since it was created in 1782.
President John F. Kennedy is the only U.S. president with a Purple Heart. Kennedy, who served in the Navy during World War II, injured his back when a Japanese destroyer collided with his patrol torpedo boat near the Solomon Islands. As his boat sank, Kennedy refused to let his injury stop him from towing a badly burned crew member to safety. Kennedy swam with the man’s life jacket strap clenched between his teeth for three miles before reaching an island and bringing the man safely to shore.
Famous Purple Heart recipients include actors such as James Arness, Charles Bronson, James Garner, and Rod Serling, writers including Kurt Vonnegut and Oliver Stone, and athletes like Warren Spahn, Pat Tillman and Rocky Bleier.
The first woman to receive a Purple Heart was Army LT Annie G. Fox for her heroic actions during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Annie, who was serving as the chief nurse at Hickam Field, Hawaii, remained calm throughout the attack on Pearl Harbor and her hospital, and successfully directed hospital staff to tend to the wounded as they came in from the harbor.
Purple Heart Day is a poignant reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and selflessness of the men and women who have been wounded or killed in action while serving the United States. It is a day to honor their legacy, educate the public, and show solidarity with those who continue to serve. It is also a reminder of the cost of freedom and the enduring spirit of those who have fought to protect it. Please use Purple Heart Day to reflect on the significance of this medal and the stories of the heroes who wear it.
