Purple Heart Day

Purple Heart Day History

Purple Heart Day is a time-honored commemoration observed annually in the United States, dedicated to acknowledging and honoring the brave men and women wounded in combat or who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Marked by ceremonies, parades, and moments of reflection, this day holds a profound significance within the military and civilian communities alike.

The Purple Heart, originally known as the Badge of Military Merit, is one of the oldest and most respected medals awarded in the U.S military, established by General George Washington in 1782. The heart-shaped purple-and-gold medal adorned with Washington’s profile symbolizes the valor and sacrifice of the American Soldier. On August 7, 1782, George Washington issued an order establishing the original Purple Heart, thus the holiday emerged, designated to pay tribute to Washington's ideals and enduring legacy of courage and dedication to their country.

Purple Heart Day does not classify as a public holiday and hence, it does not alter the business hours or public transportation schedules. Instead, it serves as a day of respect and gratitude, reinforcing the fact that freedom comes at a price. Many Americans choose to recognize it by hoisting the nation’s flag and remembering those who risked their lives for the United States. This observance is held annually on August 7th.

Purple Heart Day facts

• World War II saw the Purple Heart change from an award for worthy service to an honorary one. Those members of the Armed Forces of the United States who had been wounded, killed in action, or had died from wounds were now considered eligible for a purple heart.
• According to militarybenefits.info, the Purple Heart began as something called the Badge of Military Merit. It was an honor created by general George Washington in 1782. It was to be presented only to enlisted soldiers who had performed actions worthy of merit.
• The first US service member to receive the modern-day Purple Heart was Army General Douglas MacArthur. He was awarded for his service during World War II.
• Traditionally, according to militarybenefits.info, the color of the Purple Heart was meant to represent the courage of those who served. The original color of the Badge of Military Merit was purple. When the Purple Heart was created to celebrate George Washington’s 200th anniversary, the original color of the medal he had created was used in honor of his memory.
• Curry T. Haynes holds the record for the most Purple Hearts awarded to a single service member (10). Haynes served in the army during the Vietnam War. He received his first Purple Heart after an ambush in the jungle where he was shot in the arm. After surgery in Japan, he returned to the front where his actions would later result in him being awarded 9 additional Purple Hearts.

In the News and Trending for Purple Heart Day

Top things to do for Purple Heart Day

• Take the time to listen to soldiers and veterans. You can learn more about their life stories and their military service.
• Learn about the Purple Heart Trail. This trail serves a symbolic and honorary system of roads, highways, bridges, and other monuments that give tribute to the men and women who have been awarded the Purple Heart medal.
• Watch a war movie that highlights the bravery of American troops. Here are our picks:
  American Sniper (2014)
  Fury (2014)
  Saving Private Ryan (1998)