Pearl Team,
On August 7th, 2023 our Country observes Purple Heart Day. It is a time for us to take pause and remember the brave men and women who were either wounded on the battlefield, or who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. I found an interesting history of the Purple heart, here, that I hope you can all take the time to read and understand.
The Purple Heart, originally known as the “Fidelity Medallion”, was created in 1780 and eventually became known as the “Badge of Military Merit” which has now evolved into what we know as the Purple Heart. Prior to the Badge of Military Merit, most military awards were only given to officers who had been victorious on the battlefield. The Purple Heart is one of the first awards in our countries military history that was given to lower-ranking military members for their exceptional service and selflessness. It has gone under many changes since, in both its appearance and the qualifications for award and it continues to evolve even today.
The Purple Heart medal we know today, is presented to service members who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. military. A Purple Heart is a solemn distinction and means a service member has greatly sacrificed themselves, or paid the ultimate price, while in the line of duty.
To support those who have been presented the Purple Heart, establishments like the USO have many programs in place to support our servicemen and women. The USO offers family centers to support wounded service members and their families during medical visits. They support Gold Star families as they mourn their loved one by providing travel, comfort items and any other support they may need. The USO is a wealth of information for Purple Heart recipients as well as all veterans and their families.
I encourage you to find a way that works for you to support the foundations mentioned below. Many of these foundations accept monetary donations and volunteering. Please consider sharing the below links to veterans or veteran families you know.
- The USO
- National Veterans Foundation
- Disabled Veterans National Foundation
- The Gary Sinise Foundation
- Veterans Families United
Warmest Regards,
Merry Korn, MSW
CEO