The origins of the Purple Heart trace back to August 7, 1782, when General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit to honor “singularly meritorious action” among enlisted soldiers. Though only three were awarded during the Revolutionary War, the badge laid the foundation for what would become the Purple Heart.
In 1932, on the bicentennial of Washington’s birth, General Douglas MacArthur revived the award as the Purple Heart Medal. Initially recognizing both merit and wounds, the medal’s criteria were refined in 1944 to honor those wounded or killed in action.
Illinois has taken meaningful steps to recognize its Purple Heart recipients. The Illinois General Assembly officially designated August 7 as Purple Heart Day statewide, reinforcing the importance of honoring those who sacrificed for our country. The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs regularly hosts commemorative events, including ceremonies at the State Capitol rotunda in Springfield.
In addition, Illinois is home to the Purple Heart Memorial in Springfield, located between the state’s Vietnam and World War II memorials. Dedicated in 2016, it honors recipients from all U.S. conflicts.
Purple Heart Day is a moment to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who bore the wounds of war. In Illinois, that reflection is matched by action, remembrance, and a deep respect for the heroes among us.