The Purple Heart is one of the most recognizable and respected medals presented to service members who have been wounded or killed by an enemy while serving in the military. Purple Heart Day is annually observed on August 7 to remember and honor the sacrifices made by these military members.
General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit on August 7, 1782 as a combat decoration for the Army and Army Air Corps. Douglas MacArthur, former Chief Staff of the Army, changed its name to the Purple Heart in 1932. Later in 1942, President Roosevelt expanded the criteria to include those who were wounded or killed as a result of enemy action.
Did you know?
- It is believed that the award is purple because the color represents courage and bravery.
- In 1942, Army Lt. Annie G. Fox became the first woman to receive a Purple Heart.
- The Purple Heart is the oldest award still presented to service members.
- Curry T. Haynes currently holds the record for the largest number of Purple Hearts bestowed upon a single service member. He received nine Purple Hearts and passed away from cancer in July of 2017.
Source: USO
Honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice by donating your car to one of our charity partners that benefit military and veterans.
Military Family Advisory Network
The Military Family Advisory Network was made by military members and families for military members and families. MFAN connects families to the information, resources, and people needed to successfully navigate military life.
On this year’s Purple Heart Day, remember those who served by donating your vehicle online or calling us at 1-877-957-2277.
Car Donation Wizard accepts all car donations, trucks, motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, trailers, and RV’s. We return 75-80% of the gross proceeds from the sale of your vehicle to the organization of your choice, the highest of any vehicle donation program! This year, we reached the milestone of raising $200 million for our charity partners. Click here to read our blog with step-by-step instructions on how to donate your car.