On August 7, 1782, General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit to recognize enlisted soldiers for bravery and faithful service. It was a rare honor in an era when higher officers received most formal recognition. The badge fell out of use after the Revolutionary War but later inspired the modern Purple Heart. In 1932, the Purple Heart was officially revived as an award for those wounded or killed in action. The date of Washington’s original order is now observed as National Purple Heart Day. This tradition highlights the sacrifices of wounded service members.
