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Governor Gretchen Whitmer has recognized August 7, 2021, as Purple Heart Day to remember and pay honor to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces that were wounded or killed in enemy action while serving our country.
“On Purple Heart Day, we honor the bravery and patriotism displayed by those who willingly sacrificed their own well-being for the cause of freedom and democracy,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “We owe our wounded and fallen men and women in uniform our profound and eternal gratitude.”
“The oldest U.S. military decoration bestows honor upon our bravest heroes who have shed blood in defense of the nation,” saidU.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “We acknowledge their sacrifice and tremendous heroism on behalf of this nation, its people and our cherished freedoms.”
The Purple Heart was originally introduced in 1782 by General George Washington as the Badge of Military Merit and was awarded to soldiers in the Continental Army who fought during the American Revolution. It was not until the bicentennial of his birth in 1932 that the award became known as the Purple Heart. The first service member to receive the modern-day Purple Heart was Army Gen. Douglas MacArthur for his service in the Pacific theater during World War II.
“It’s important that we pause to remember and honor these brave service members who were combat wounded or have made the ultimate sacrifice of giving their lives on the front lines,” said Zaneta Adams, director of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA). “The MVAA proudly serves those who have borne the burden of battle and we encourage veterans and their families to utilize the benefits they rightfully earned and deserve.”
About Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
The Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) synchronizes strategic, legislative and fiscal initiatives to build and sustain military readiness, care and advocacy for veterans and cultivate purposeful partnerships. Branch operations include Michigan Veteran Homes, Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, State Operations, Army National Guard and Air National Guard which stand in support of our mission to serve every member. For more information, please visit: https://www.michigan.gov/dmva.
