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Badge of Military Merit

This Badge of Military Merit is the original from which the modern-day Purple Heart Medal is derived.
The Badge of Military Merit was first announced in General George Washington's general orders to the Continental Army issued on August 7, 1782 at the Headquarters in Newburgh. It was intended as a military order for soldiers who displayed exceptional meritorious service in battle. The writings of General Washington quoted in part:

"The General ever desirous to cherish a virtuous ambition in his soldiers, as well as to foster and encourage every species of Military Merit, directs that whenever any singularly meritorious action is performed, the author of it shall be permitted to wear on his facings over the left breast, the figure of a heart in purple cloth or silk, edged with narrow lace or binding. Not only instances of unusual gallantry, but also of extraordinary fidelity and essential service in any way shall meet with a due reward."
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General George Washington initially created the Purple Heart as the “Badge of Military Merit” on August 7, 1782 in Newburgh, New York for enlisted soldiers who had performed bravely in combat.
When the Continental Congress forbid George Washington from granting commissions and promotions in rank to recognize merit because there were not enough funds to pay for it, Washington responded by creating the Badge of Military Merit.
The Badge of Military Merit was open only to enlisted men and permitted them to pass all guards and sentinels as commissioned officers could.
There are three known recipients of the Badge of Military Merit:

  • Sergeant Elijah Churchill, 2nd Continental Light DragoonsSergeant

  • William Brown, a member of the 5th Connecticut Regiment, Continental LineSergeant


  • Daniel Bissel, 2nd Connecticut Continental Line Infantry
General George Washington intended for the award to be permanent; however, it was forgotten about after the Revolution had ended and up until the 20th century.
https://www.purpleheart3620.org/about-the-medal
 

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