August 7 – Purple Heart Day
American Legion, Peter J Courcy Post 178, is proud to be a Purple Heart Post.
National Purple Heart Day is observed each year on August 7, honoring those U.S. service members who have been wounded or killed while serving under enemy action.
The origins of Purple Heart Day trace back to August 7, 1782, when General George Washington established the Badge of Military Merit, the forerunner to the modern Purple Heart. Though awarded sparingly during the Revolutionary War, it symbolized Washington’s intent to recognize valor and devotion among enlisted soldiers.