Friday, June 24, 2016

Honor Roll: The History Of The Order Of The Purple Heart

Image source: mophtucson.webs.com 
The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the U.S. armed forces, who were injured by an instrument of war and posthumously granted to the family of soldiers who were killed or died of wounds received in combat. The Purple Heart is often described as the oldest medal in the military.

The recognition was created 0n Aug. 7, 1782, by no other than Gen. George Washington and was called the Badge of Military Merit back then. During the waning days of the American Revolution, the Continental Congress prohibited Washington from granting commissions and promotions in rank as recognition for merit. But with the desire to still honor merit, the badge was established.

The purple, heart-shaped piece of silk, with a thin silver edge that had the word Merit stitched on the face in silver, was presented to a soldier for meritorious service or bravery in combat. By wearing it, the awardee was able to pass guards and sentinels without challenge. As soon as the revolution ended, the Badge of Merit was largely forgotten until Feb. 22, 1932 – the bicentennial of Washington’s birth.

Image source: stripes.com
Gen. Douglas MacArthur helped in reviving the award, with the U.S. War Department eventually announcing the creation of the Order of the Purple Heart. It is now awarded to the soldiers who gave their lives in service to the nation.

Former infantry sergeant Brendan Triplett has been awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star Medal for his services in the U.S. Army. Learn more about him here.



Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Japan Puts 38M Yen Golden Rugby Ball For Sale

Recently, Japan unveiled its 38M Yen (US $360,000) golden rugby ball in Tokyo as a tribute to the country’s shocking win against South Africa in last year’s World Cup. The golden ball is said to weigh around 2.8 kg and is currently displayed in the country’s oldest department store chain, Mitsukoshi. 

The golden ball is the object of much interest, not only for its weight and determinedly brilliant appearance, but for its representation of Japan’s first world tournament win in 24 years. It is hoped that the golden ball’s display and eventual sale will inspire the Brave Blossoms further when Japan hosts the next World Cup in 2019. 

Image Source: zimbio.com

In Asia, Japan’s national rugby team have continually shocked the prevailing order in the sport. They are arguably the strongest Asian team today, and international players are impressed most by the size and speed of Japanese rugby players. There is usually a sense of superiority among opposing teams which the Japanese readily outsmart. The Japanese rugby team have participated in every World Cup event since 1987 and have performed well in all of the editions.

The Brave Blossoms’ 34-32 win over South Africa’s Springbooks was a remarkable upset in the latter’s home soil. Most bets were placed on the more well-known South African team. The Japanese win therefore went against all odds and expectations. 

Image Source: telegraph.co.uk

The golden rugby ball might augur and inspire not just singular victories but a continuous winning streak for the Japanese in future World Cup editions. 

Brendan Triplett is a former infantry sergeant who loves rugby. Visit this Twitter account for the latest in the sport.