In the name of the president of the United States, the Purple heart is given to any civilian or member of an Armed Force of the US who, while serving has been wounded or killed. (Purple Heart Criteria) This award has a place in history that reaches as far back as the American Revolution. In the summer of 1782, the Continental Congress ordered General George Washington to stop rewarding soldiers with higher rank or money. Congress told Washington that they had no money to pay for these rewards and that he “must find another way to recognize the loyalty and service of your troops.” (Nancy Robinson Masters)
After being used for a brief time, Washington’s solution was soon forgotten for over 150 years. Until among the War Department records, an
