The Purple Heart is unlike most military honors. It recognizes a sacrifice no service member sets out to make. Since the modern medal was established in 1932, an estimated 1.9 million Purple Hearts have been awarded.


On Aug. 7, 1782, Gen. George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit. The heart-shaped cloth badge honored enlisted soldiers for unusual bravery, loyalty or essential service during the Revolutionary War. Only three recipients have been officially documented, and the badge eventually fell out of use.


Gen. Douglas MacArthur revived and redesigned the award in 1932 as the Purple Heart medal we recognize today. At the time, it could recognize both combat wounds and meritorious military service. In 1942, the eligibility guidelines changed, ending awards for meritorious service and establishing the Purple Heart as recognition for service members wounded or killed as a result of enemy action.


The history of this distinguished medal has evolved, but its meaning remains deeply personal for every recipient.


For U.S. Army veteran Antoinette V. Scott, receiving the Purple Heart carries an unmistakable meaning. Reflecting on the honor, Scott said:


“Receiving the Purple Heart means to me that the work that it took to receive the Purple Heart started when I lived to tell my story. God saved me from making the ultimate sacrifice. I am forever grateful.”





On Nov. 14, 2003, Scott was serving with the 547th Transportation Company in Iraq. While driving a five-ton vehicle carrying fellow soldiers to Baghdad International Airport, an improvised explosive device detonated and damaged the vehicle.


Scott suffered shrapnel wounds to her face, a fractured jaw, and a traumatic brain injury. Despite her injuries, she kept the vehicle moving and brought her fellow soldiers to safety before receiving medical attention. Her injuries required 59 stitches.


On March 30, 2016, the Council of the District of Columbia honored Scott with a ceremonial resolution recognizing her military service and her distinction as the first woman from Washington, D.C., to receive the Purple Heart.


Purple Heart Day, observed annually on Aug. 7, honors those whose military service came with extraordinary sacrifice. Their medals may be visible, but the courage, recovery and personal stories behind them deserve recognition throughout the year