Unusual Gallantry and Extraordinary Fidelity: Celebrating the Purple Heart

Anna Leutheuser / May 03, 2011

The valor of the Navy SEALs has received much attention in the last few days – as it should.  Today, on the anniversary of the first awarded Purple Hearts, we remember not only those who now serve, but all those who have already set this example of tenacity and bravery.

The Purple Heart was instituted by General Washington during the American Revolution, and was originally called the Badge of Military Merit.  The Badge was awarded to honor those who displayed “unusual gallantry” or “extraordinary fidelity and essential service” to the fight for “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”.  Washington recognized the importance of each soldier’s contribution to this fight, and so created the Badge as the first American military honor available to the common soldier.  On the day it was instituted, Washington wrote in his orderly book: “The road to glory in a patriot army and a free country is thus open to all.” (more…)