The Purple Heart is the oldest military award in America. On August 7, 1782, nearing the end of the Revolutionary War, General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit to recognize heroic acts. The Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart were created from the Badge of Military Merit. The requirements were different from today's Purple Heart Medal. Like today’s Medal of Honor, soldiers in the Continental Army were awarded this medal for being heroic or performing an act that contributed to the success of the Continental Army. The Purple Heart is ranked immediately behind the Bronze Star and ahead of the Defense Meritorious Service Medal in order of precedence.
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