Honor Their Sacrifice: Purple Heart Day | August 7

We have all heard of the Purple Heart, a military decoration that honors the men and women who have been wounded or killed by enemy action during military service. But did you know that there is an annual day to honor the recipients of this medal? 

Purple Heart Day is observed on August 7 to commemorate the date that George Washington, as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, commissioned the first Purple Heart Medal, originally called the Badge of Military Merit.

Now known as the Purple Heart Medal, it was redesigned and re-commissioned by General Douglas MacArthur in 1932, in honor of George Washington's 200th birthday. It is the oldest military decoration still being awarded. 

Meaningful ways to observe Purple Heart Day

• Honor Purple Heart Recipients
  • Learn about the history and significance of the Purple Heart.
  • Visit a veterans memorial or cemetery and leave flowers or an American flag where appropriate.
• Support Veterans
  • Donate to organizations that assist wounded veterans and their families. 
  • Write thank-you cards for veterans at a local VA hospital or veterans home.
  • Offer practical help to a veteran in your neighborhood, such as yard work, a meal, or transportation.
  • Volunteer with a local veterans organization
  • Make care packages for deployed troops or veterans.
• Educate Others
  • Read a book or watch a documentary about wounded warriors. 
  • Talk with children and grandchildren about the meaning of sacrifice and service. 
  • Display the American flag properly and explain why the day is observed.
• At Church
  • Include a prayer for wounded service members, military families, and caregivers.
  • Recognize Purple Heart recipients who are present (with their permission).
  • Include a brief historical note in the bulletin.
  • Sing a patriotic hymn such as "America the Beautiful" or "My Country, 'Tis of Thee."

Freedom has always come at a cost. Purple Heart Day reminds us that behind every medal is a person who bore wounds (whether seen or unseen) in service to our nation.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, today we remember those who have borne the wounds of war in service to our nation. Comfort those who continue to carry physical and emotional scars, strengthen their families, and surround them with Your peace. Help us never take lightly the freedoms purchased at such great cost. Grant us grateful hearts and a renewed commitment to serve others with courage, compassion and honor. Amen.

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During Purple Heart Weekend (August 7-9, 2026), WaterSong Creations will donate 10% of every purchase to Wounded Warrior Project. Our contribution will be doubled by a matching grant from USAA. Learn more.