WWP warrior Mike Matthews.
Purple Heart Day (Aug. 7) commemorates the brave men and women who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action during their military service. To honor these veterans, many people across the nation pause to recognize the sacrifices made for our freedom.
The purple color of the award represents the courage of those who gave so much. It is America's oldest military honor.
The Purple Heart, originally known as the Badge of Military Merit, was established by George Washington in 1782 to recognize heroic acts during the Revolutionary War. The award fell into obscurity before being renamed the Purple Heart in 1932. The Purple Heart design pays homage to the Badge of Military Merit, which was a heart cut out of purple cloth with the word “merit” stitched across it.
Purple Heart Day is observed on Aug. 7 to commemorate the day in 1782 when Washington established the Badge of Military Merit.
Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) asked warriors what having a Purple Heart means to them. Here are some of their responses:
"Having a Purple Heart means that I was stronger than what was meant to take me out. It means that by no means did I run from danger or uncertainty, but instead faced my enemy head on!" — Mike Matthews, U.S. Army
"Having a Purple Heart is a tangible reminder of what happened in Iraq. It's a reminder that you don't necessarily come back in the same condition that you left." — Andrew Harriman, U.S. Army
"The Purple Heart award for me brings thoughts of all those wounded or slain in this nation’s history in battle. I am honored and humbled to share the same medal as others who answered America’s call of duty." — Brent Whitten, U.S. Army
"More than anything else, receiving a Purple Heart means everything to me." — David Guzman, U.S. Army