232 years ago today-August 7, 1782-Gen. George Washington, later first President of the United States, ordered the creation of a Badge of Military Merit (top) for soldiers who exhibited not only instances of unusual gallantry in battle, but also extraordinary fidelity and essential service in any way. This is considered the first military decoration in American history. The award fell into disuse after the Revolutionary War. In 1932, the U.S. Department of War (established 225 years ago today on August 7, 1789, by the way) authorized the creation of a new medal called the Purple Heart (bottom) for soldiers wounded in battle. The Purple Heart continues to be issued to this day and is considered the successor decoration to the Badge of Military Merit.
Posted on: Thu, 07 Aug 2014 18:00:00 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015