The Mayor and Marana Town Council declare August 7, 2021, as "National Purple Heart Day" in Marana, and encourages the Marana Community to remember and honor the men and women who bravely represented their country and were wounded or killed whilst serving, as well as those injured in other ways or places.
Purple Heart Day is an observance that commemorates the creation of the Purple Heart Medal in 1782. August 7 is recognized as National Purple Heart Day, a day dedicated to honoring our nations' many military personnel heroes and service members who have made such important sacrifices for our country.
The original Purple Heart designated as a Badge of Merit, was awarded by President George Washington in 1782, as there was a lack of funds in the Continental Army at the time so the award was a way to honor enlisted and deserving people. The honor is presented to soldiers for "any singularly meritorious action." During his years, President Washington only gave out three of the badges himself; however, authorized subordinates to issue the badges as they saw fit.
The Badge of Merit faded from use, but was revived and relaunched in 1932, as the Purple Heart. The relaunched badge honored those wounded in combat, as well as recognized commendable action. It was in 1944 that the policy was tweaked slightly, and the Purple Heart was given the purpose we know it for today, specifically to honor those who have been wounded or died.
The first service member to be given the modern Purple Heart was General Douglas MacArthur for his service in the Pacific theater during World War II. In total, there have been 1.8 million Purple Hearts awarded over the years; and
Purple Heart Day was first observed in 2014, and has been observed every year since. It is a chance to reflect on the bravery of those who have fought for the U.S. and to ensure that their courage is never forgotten.
