National Purple Heart Day falls on August 7. It is a day of observance to commemorate the creation of the Purple Heart on August 7, 1782, by General George Washington, the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army.
The Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration still presented to service members. The Purple Heart medal is presented to service members who have been wounded or killed as the result of direct or indirect enemy action. The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor estimates that 1.8 million Purple Hearts have been issued since it was re-established in 1932. It is believed that the award is purple because the color represents courage and bravery.
-Submitted by Gordon Weis
(Image credit: Gordon Weis)