Purple Heart Day Honored Nationwide with Ceremonies

Purple Heart Day, observed annually on August 7, honors U.S. military members wounded or killed in action, recognizing their sacrifices for the nation's freedom. The award, established as the Badge of Military Merit by George Washington in 1782 and revived in 1932, remains America's oldest military decoration, now with nearly 1.8 to 2 million recipients. Communities like Pueblo, Colorado, and Bay County, Florida, held ceremonies and lit landmarks purple to honor local veterans. Notable recipients include Colin Powell, Marine Gunnery Sergeant Hayes, and Vietnam medic Mike Seeley, whose stories highlight the courage and humility of honorees. Many recipients express gratitude for survival rather than pride, remembering those who paid the ultimate price. Educational initiatives by organizations such as the Center for American Values continue to teach new generations about the significance of the Purple Heart and the enduring cost of liberty.