Purple hearts book – Learn more with Healthier Veterans Today! The Purple Heart is a prestigious military decoration in the United States.
Awarded to members of the armed forces who have been wounded, injured, or killed in combat against an enemy or due to acts of international terrorism.
With its origins dating back to the American Revolutionary War, the award was revived and renamed in 1932 by President Herbert Hoover.
Its significance lies in honoring the sacrifices, courage, and resilience of service members who have endured the hardships of war.
While not as widely recognized as other awards, the Purple Heart holds immense respect within the military community.
It symbolizes the deep gratitude owed to those who have borne the cost of battle. It is a reminder of the selfless dedication of individuals who have put their lives on the line for their country.
Table of Contents
1. What is the Purple Hearts Book About
Private Matt Duffy, eighteen, awakens in a military hospital in Iraq, where he is then awarded the Purple Heart no more than 24 hours after suffering a traumatic head injury.
He can’t remember what happened because of his injury, but he does recall seeing a young Iraqi boy named Ali being blown up.
Matt could face prison time if he were responsible for Ali’s death… Matt and his team had befriended Ali as part of their mission to help the Iraqis.
Some members of his squad claimed that you couldn’t trust any Iraqis. Others were torn between wanting to help the Iraqis and being told to kill them as needed.
Matt’s guilt over Ali’s death remains even after he has healed. Matt returns to his squad, clear of any responsibility for civilian casualties, he is determined to protect Wolf, Justin, and Charlene, who have become his best friends.
Too soon, he witnesses the deaths of more friends, and the next mission he undertakes forces him to make a life-or-death decision: Will he pull the trigger to save his last friend?
2. What You Need to Know About The Purple Hearts Book Title
The Purple Heart book is about a prestigious and revered military decoration awarded to United States Armed Forces members who have been wounded or killed in combat.
It symbolizes courage, sacrifice, and honor and holds a special place in the hearts of service members and the nation.
We will delve into the history, significance, criteria, and some notable recipients of the Purple Hearts book veteran medal.
1. History and Significance
The Purple Hearts book has a rich history of the American Revolutionary War. Initially established by General George Washington in 1782 as the “Badge of Military Merit,” it was intended to honor soldiers with exceptional courage and merit on the battlefield.
The badge fell into disuse after the Revolutionary War but was revived and renamed the Purple Heart by President Herbert Hoover in 1932 on the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth.
The medal’s name was derived from the purple heart-shaped cloth patch that General Washington used as a badge of honor during the Revolutionary War.
The modern Purple Heart medal design features a profile of George Washington and a purple heart suspended from a ribbon.
2. Criteria for Award
The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the U.S. military who have been wounded, injured, or killed in action against an enemy of the United States.
The criteria for receiving the medal have evolved over the years, including injuries from combat, friendly fire incidents, and terrorist attacks.
In 1998, the requirements were changed to include damages resulting from acts of international terrorism.
To be eligible for the Purple Heart, the injury must have occurred while the service member was in action against an enemy or as a result of an act of international terrorism.
Self-inflicted wounds resulting from negligence and injuries incurred while intoxicated are generally not eligible for the medal.
3. Notable Recipients
The Purple Heart has been awarded to countless brave men and women who have put their lives on the line for their country.
Some notable recipients include:
- Colin Powell – The former U.S. Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff received the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during his second tour in the Vietnam War.
- Tammy Duckworth – A U.S. Senator and Army veteran, Duckworth lost both legs when her helicopter was hit by enemy fire in Iraq.
- John F. Kennedy – Before he became the 35th President of the United States, Kennedy received the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during World War II.
- Pat Tillman – An NFL player who had left his career to enlist in the Army after the September 11 attacks.
He died by friendly fire in Afghanistan and posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.
3. Is The Purple Hearts a Big Award?
Yes, the Purple Heart is considered a significant and prestigious military award in the United States. It holds great importance due to the sacrifices and bravery it represents.
While it may not have the same level of recognition as some other well-known awards like the Medal of Honor, it is still highly regarded and respected within the military community and by the general public.
The Purple Heart is unique in that it recognizes explicitly those wounded, injured, or killed in combat while serving their country.
It symbolizes the physical and emotional toll that war takes on individuals who put themselves in harm’s way for the greater good.
As a result, it is held in high esteem as a representation of honor, sacrifice, and courage.
Recipients of the Purple Heart have typically faced life-threatening situations and endured hardships while serving their nation.
Their courage and dedication to duty are acknowledged and honored through this award.
While the Purple Heart may not have the same widespread recognition as some other awards, it is significant to those who have earned it and their families and the country as a whole.
Best Facts About The Purple Hearts Book…
The Purple Hearts book veteran medal stands as a symbol of sacrifice, courage, and resilience.
It honors those who have endured the hardships of war and reminds us of the tremendous sacrifices made by service members to defend freedom.
As the nation’s oldest military award, the Purple Heart is a tangible reminder of the deep respect and gratitude owed to those who have borne the cost of battle.
