- Categories:
- Federal
- Tags:
- AmericanMilitary
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every August 7
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Purple Heart Day arrives every August 7, a solemn occasion to honor the profound sacrifices of U.S. service members wounded or killed in combat. Take time to recognize these courageous individuals, support veteran organizations, and educate others on the significance of the Purple Heart medal.
Want to sponsor Purple Heart Day? Learn how
Expected Purple Heart Day Deals
On Purple Heart Day, commercial deals often pivot from sales to appreciation and support. Many national brands, like Starbucks and The Home Depot, consistently offer military discounts year-round, which may be highlighted on this day. Look for veteran-owned businesses to promote special offers or donation-matching initiatives. Organizations such as the Military Order of the Purple Heart and the Purple Heart Foundation focus on fundraising and awareness campaigns, encouraging direct donations or purchases of commemorative merchandise. Local restaurants and retailers might extend special recognition or small gestures of gratitude to Purple Heart recipients. We will update this page with confirmed live deals and initiatives as August 7 approaches.
Platform Guide for Purple Heart Day
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #PurpleHeartDay. Share stories of Purple Heart recipients or highlight veteran support programs.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #PurpleHeartDay. Post facts about the Purple Heart’s history or share messages of gratitude for service members.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #PurpleHeartDay. Share community events or local initiatives honoring Purple Heart recipients.
Purple Heart Day Hero
George Washington
History of Purple Heart Day
The original Purple Heart, designated as a Badge of Merit, was awarded by George Washington in 1782. There was a lack of funds in the Continental Army at the time so the award was a way to honor enlisted and deserving people. The honor is presented to soldiers for “any singularly meritorious action.” It was designed with a piece of silk bound through it with a thin edge of silver. Washington only gave out three of the badges himself, and instead authorized subordinates to issue the badges as they saw fit.
The Badge of Merit faded from use but was revived and relaunched in 1932, this time as the Purple Heart. As well as honoring those wounded in combat, this iteration of the Purple Heart recognized commendable action. It was in 1944 that the policy was tweaked slightly and the Purple Heart was given the purpose we know it for today, specifically to honor those who have been wounded or died.
The first service member to be given the modern Purple Heart was General Douglas MacArthur for his service in the Pacific theater during World War II. In total there have been 1.8 million Purple Hearts awarded over the years.
Purple Heart Day was first observed in 2014 and has been observed every year since. It’s a chance to reflect on the bravery of those who have fought for the U.S. and to ensure that their courage is never forgotten.
Purple Heart Day timeline
George Washington creates the Purple Heart award to commend soldiers.
The award was forgotten about until now on George Washington’s 200th birthday.
This year, the Purple Heart Recipients are able to join the newly formed Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH).
Purple Heart Day is first established.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Purple Heart Day
Local businesses can honor Purple Heart Day by displaying purple ribbons or flags, offering special discounts or complimentary services to Purple Heart recipients, and partnering with veteran support organizations for donation drives. Restaurants might create a ‘Hero’s Meal’ where a portion of proceeds benefits a local veterans’ charity. Retailers can highlight veteran-owned brands or feature stories of Purple Heart recipients in their community, fostering a sense of gratitude and recognition.
Purple Heart Day FAQs
When is Purple Heart Day?
Purple Heart Day 2026 falls on a Friday, August 7, offering a dedicated opportunity to honor the bravery and sacrifice of service members who have received the Purple Heart medal.
How many Purple Hearts have been awarded?
Since its inception, over 1.8 million Purple Hearts have been awarded to service members across various conflicts, with significant numbers from World War II, Vietnam, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Who is eligible for a Purple Heart?
The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have been wounded or killed in action against an enemy of the United States, or as a result of an act of any such enemy.
What is the history of the Purple Heart?
The original ‘Badge of Military Merit’ was established by George Washington on August 7, 1782, making it the oldest military award in the world. It was revived and officially designated as the Purple Heart in 1932.
How to Observe Purple Heart Day
Donate to the MOPH
This is a great time to donate to the Military Order of the Purple Heart. You can pay your respects by aiding those who bore the burden of battle. You can also support wounded veterans by buying a purple heart.
Learn more about the military
Educate yourself on the military and what they do. Read the stories of people who have been in a battle to understand why the Purple Heart awards are so important.
Use #PurpleHeartDay online
If you have a family member or friend who served for the U.S. and has a Purple Heart share their story with #PurpleHeartDay on Twitter and Instagram.
5 Facts About Purple Heart Day
Pawn-ple
An unknown soldier from Michigan who served in Afghanistan pawned his purple heart for cash.
A million hearts
1.8 Million Purple Hearts have been handed out since 1932.
Join the club
In total there are 45,000 members of the MOPH today.
Whose in?
An accurate list of names who were awarded Purple Hearts no longer exists.
Ladies and Gentlemen…
A female lieutenant, Annie G.Fox received a Purple Heart during World War II for her work on Pearl Harbor.
Why Purple Heart Day is Important
It recognizes sacrifice
The Purple Heart recognizes the sacrifice made by soldiers who were willing to put their lives on the line for their country. These brave soldiers deserve to be remembered throughout history.
The history
It is important to remember our history and how we ended up where we are today. Purple Heart Day affords us the opportunity for reflection on everything that has gone before us.
Nobody is forgotten
This day is for remembering everyone who was ever wounded or killed representing the U.S. It means nobody is forgotten and the memory lives on.
Social Media Tips for Purple Heart Day
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