953 nut 60,348 #1 Posted August 7 Purple Heart Day on August 7 is the kind of day created to give back. It’s a day for Americans to remember and honor the men and women who bravely represented their country and were wounded or killed whilst serving. These people are decorated with a Purple Heart in the name of the President, and this day is for remembering them and their sacrifice. Some states, counties, and cities pause in recognition, as do some sports and entertainment entities. Military and veteran organizations also hold meetings for remembrance. Join us as we honor those that have been given a Purple Heart. The original Purple Heart, designated as a Badge of Merit, was awarded by George Washington in 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 honor is presented to soldiers for “any singularly meritorious action.” It was designed with a piece of silk bound through it with a thin edge of silver. Washington only gave out three of the badges himself, and instead authorized subordinates to issue the badges 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 died. The first service member to be given the modern Purple Heart was General Douglas MacArthur for his service in the Pacific theater during World War II. In total there have been 1.8 million Purple Hearts awarded over the years. 1 3 2 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sergeant 324 #5 Posted August 7 (edited) General Douglas MacArthur changed the Purple Heart when he was 13th Army Chief of Staff from 1930 to 1935 to being given for being wounded in enemy action or for meritorious performance. Yes, General MacArthur was the receiver of the 1st Purple Heart given for wounds. But it was for a gas attack that happened to him in WWI that had nothing to do with his performance in WWII. By executive order In 1942 is when the Purple Heart was given for being wounded or killed in enemy action only( the executive order stopped it for being given for meritorious performance) . Prior to the Purple Heart, you received a wound chevron. given 1918 to 1932 Edited August 7 by sergeant 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
