VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – Every year, August 7th celebrates Purple Heart Day to honor our nations heroes.
The Purple Heart is America’s oldest decoration for military merit. It was created by General George Washington in 1782. The purple heart bears his image and the Washington family crest. But since 1944 the award has been given to those wounded or killed in combat. Today it remains as one of the most prestigious and coveted medals.
Vigo County Veteran Service Officer Vickie Albright said this day is special to her, because her husband received one during his time in the line of duty.
“It’s kind of special because there’s not a lot of them that get that, but he was called to duty. He responded, he got injured. Thankfully he got to come home because there’s a lot of our veterans that served in Vietnam that didn’t get to come home,” she said.
There’s no full record, but it’s estimated nearly 2 million Purple Hearts have been awarded.
