Authorized in 1932, this is the modern form of thr original Purple Heart established by
General George Washington in 1782. It is awarded for Combat Action Only and is awarded to any person wounded in action while
serving with the armed forces of the United States. It is also awarded posthumosuly to
next
of kin of personnel killed in action, or who died of wounds received in action after April 5, 1917.
Originally one of the lesser decorations in the Pyramid of Honor, it was elevated to its
current position by President Ronald Regan in 1985. Designed by Elizabeth Will, this
heart-shaped
medal is one of the best known and most beautiful of all US decorations. The decoration
includes a fine profile of General Washington, as well as the Washington family coat of
arms at the top of the heart.
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