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

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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.

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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.