Today in History

August 7, 1782

The Purple Heart

On August 7, 1782, General George Washington issued orders to the Continental Army creating the Badge of Military Merit, later better known as "The Purple Heart" . Designed by Washington himself, the medal was intended for soldiers wounded in battle. As such, it is one of the first honors to be awarded to common soldiers as opposed to officers. It is the second oldest United States military award in existence.

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