Gov. Terry Branstad has officially proclaimed Sunday, August 7, 2016 as Purple Heart Day. The Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration in the world still in present use and recognizes service members in wars and conflicts throughout America’s history who have been wounded or died in armed conflict or been held as prisoners of war. The first Purple Heart was established as the Badge of Military Merit by General George Washington on Aug. 7, 1782. On Sunday, Iowans are asked to remember and honor these brave heroes across the state, living and deceased, who have been awarded the Purple Heart Medal, along with honoring all of our veterans as well as those military members currently serving at home and abroad.
