FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — Each year, on Aug. 7 — National Purple Heart Day — we remember the courageous actions taken by service members, who bear physical and non-physical reminders of their sacrifices.
Introduced on Aug. 7, 1782, by Gen. George Washington as the Badge of Merit, the award was presented to three Soldiers for their acts of heroism during the American Revolutionary War. The badge was not presented again until 1932, when the armed forces began to award the Purple Heart to those who were wounded or killed by enemy actions on or after April 5, 1917, the day before the United States officially joined World War I. Army Chief of Staff Gen. Douglas MacArthur was the first Soldier to receive the award upon its revival for actions in World War I.
To date, more than 1.8 million Purple Hearts have been awarded to service members across our military. Purple Heart recipients can be found within our Fort Leonard Wood community, including veterans, retirees and uniformed service members, who continue to serve. We honor their service, sacrifice and continued support to our community and our great nation.
Victory Starts Here – Victory Through Skill!
Be All You Can Be
Social Sharing