Purple Heart Day, August 7th

Purple Heart Day, observed on August 7th, commemorates the creation of the oldest American military decoration for military merit. The Purple Heart honors the brave men and women who are part of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. The decoration’s origins date back to the American Revolutionary War, where the Badge of Military Merit recognized six known soldiers for their valor.

The Birth of the Badge of Merit

In 1782, General George Washington introduced the Badge of Merit to reward soldiers for “any singularly meritorious action.” The badge featured a purple, heart-shaped piece of silk with silver embroidery. Although its designer remains unknown, the badge symbolized the courage and devotion of American patriots. Despite its significance, the Purple Heart was largely forgotten until General Douglas MacArthur revived it in 1932 on Washington’s 200th birthday, establishing the modern Order of the Purple Heart. Today, the medal bears a bust of George Washington and his coat of arms.

A Legacy of Valor

Since its creation, nearly 1.9 million service members have received the Purple Heart, making it the oldest U.S. military honor still awarded today. Initially, the Purple Heart also recognized commendable actions by service members, but since 1944, it has been awarded exclusively to those wounded or killed in combat.

Significant Milestones

• The Badge of Military Merit replaced the Fidelity Medallion, with William Brown and Elijah Churchill being the first recipients during the Revolutionary War.
• Army General Douglas MacArthur received the first modern-day Purple Heart.
• Army Lt. Annie G. Fox became the first woman to receive a Purple Heart for her actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor in World War II.

How to Observe Purple Heart Day

Purple Heart Day is a time to honor everyone who has received this distinguished medal. Here are ways to commemorate the day:

1. Learn and Reflect: Educate yourself about the Military Order of the Purple Heart and the stories of those who have earned it.
   • Read “For Military Merit: Recipients of the Purple Heart” by Fred L. Borch or “Purple Heart” by Patricia McCormick.
   • Watch documentaries like “Purple Heart Warriors: Tears of a Warrior” by Tony Seahorn.
2. Visit Museums: Explore military museums such as the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor or The National WWII Museum, which provide in-depth histories of the Purple Heart.
3. Share and Celebrate: Recognize a Purple Heart recipient and share their story on social media using #PurpleHeartDay. Express why celebrating Purple Heart Day is important to you and your community.

History of Purple Heart Day

Since 1932, Purple Heart Day has been celebrated on various dates, including George Washington’s birthday and Valentine’s Day. Different states and cities have observed it at various times, often encouraging citizens to support wounded veterans by purchasing purple violas. Over time, August 7th, the day of the Purple Heart’s creation in 1782, has become the most common date for the observance. This day honors the men and women who were killed or wounded in combat and their heroic actions, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.

The following Information was provided by Doug Haynes

HELP US COMMEMORATE & PRESERVE THE SACRIFICE AND SERVICE OF OUR NATION’S PURPLE HEART RECIPIENTS.
If you are or know a Purple Heart recipient, help us to preserve their history and commemorate their sacrifices by enrolling in the Roll of Honor database.

WHAT IS THE ROLL OF HONOR?
The Roll of Honor is a database of Purple Heart recipients created and managed exclusively by the Hall of Honor as there is no comprehensive list of Purple Heart recipients in existence. The goal is to develop as comprehensive a list as possible, but we need your help to enroll recipients as we continue to build that database. Recipients, their families or even friends can enroll someone in the Roll of Honor.

HOW CAN A RECIPIENT BE ENROLLED?
You can download an enrollment form from our website enrollment link: (https://www.thepurpleheart.com/enrollment/ ). Or if you prefer, you can call us at 845-561-1765 and we can mail you the enrollment form. Once you have the form, you can fill it out and include official documentation verification that the award was made and return it to the Hall of Honor. We will send an acknowledgment letter to let you know when the enrollment has been completed. If you have any questions about the process, please give us a call at 845-561-1765.