Today, Alabama, along with the entire nation, observes Purple Heart Day.
This day, August 7, annually commemorates the moment in 1782 when then-General George Washington created the Purple Heart Medal, which was originally called the Badge of Military Merit and awarded for meritorious service.
“[The Purple Heart] symbolizes the timeless and noble values of patriotism, honor, and courage, which are hallmarks of our Armed Forces,” said President Trump in a statement released by the White House. “In every generation, the Purple Heart has been awarded to American service members in recognition of their devotion to duty and sacrifice on the battlefield.”
“Some recipients have lost their lives in the defense of our great Nation, while others have suffered life-changing injuries while safeguarding our liberty,” he continued. “All have displayed uncommon courage as they distinguished themselves in combat, and they remain a revered class of American patriots to whom we owe our everlasting respect and gratitude.”
Read the history of the Purple Heart here.
“Melania joins me in thanking all those who have served and who continue to serve our Nation in uniform, and we send our best wishes to those marking this day through special ceremonies and events,” President Trump concluded.
On this day in history, General George Washington created the Purple Heart Medal to honor those who were wounded or lost in battle. More than 2 million men and woman have received the Purple Heart since 1932. #PurpleHeartDay pic.twitter.com/QzORSzB1UT
— GOP (@GOP) August 7, 2018
Grateful to the heroic Americans who have fought to defend our freedom and have been awarded the Purple Heart. THANK YOU! #PurpleHeartDay pic.twitter.com/JQ70LDVk2V
— Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) August 7, 2018
A purple heart is awarded to those who have been wounded or killed while serving our country. Today we honor these recipients, the brave men and women who have committed tremendous acts of bravery in defense of our freedoms. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/tSkiHxgFmL
— Bradley Byrne (@BradleyByrne) August 7, 2018
On #PurpleHeartDay and every day, we should honor those who were wounded or killed while protecting our nation. We owe these heroes a great debt of gratitude for the sacrifices made to defend our country and freedoms. pic.twitter.com/B6OWBund4O
— Rep. Martha Roby (@RepMarthaRoby) August 7, 2018
“These fallen heroes represent the character of a nation who has a long history of patriotism and honor — and a nation who has fought many battles to keep our country free from threats of terror.” — Michael N. Castle#PurpleHeartDay pic.twitter.com/Wc3w9MjsLq
— ALGOP (@ALGOP) August 7, 2018
Sean Ross is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn
