The Badge of Military Merit
The original purple heart was established by George Washington. The heart-shaped honor was made of purple cloth.
First recipients
The first recipients of the Badge of Military Merit were awarded by George Washington to the following Revolutionary War soldiers:
— Sergeant William Brown
— Sergeant Elijah Churchill
— Sergeant Daniel Bissell
The badge was not used after the Revolutionary War, but it was not officially abolished. In 1932, the modern-day Purple Heart was established as the successor.
Honoring the Wounded or Killed
Since 1782, 1.8 million people in the U.S. Military, who were wounded or killed as a result of military action, have been recognized with this medal.
Thank you for your service and sacrifice. I’m grateful for you all, and for everyone who has served, or is currently serving.
Share your thanks for those who’ve sacrificed for us.
National Purple Heart Day – Share your thanks for those who've sacrificed for us. Share on XJoni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.
May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.
Thanks for sharing this interesting history of the purple heart. I, too, am grateful for all who have fought to keep us free and safe.
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Thank you for sharing this Joni. I agree with your thanks for all who sacrificed or are sacrificing for us.