A Brief History of the Purple Heart Award

A 35-year veteran of the United States Army, Colt K. Bulot held a number of positions within the Airborne Infantry division, including special forces communication sergeant, unit supply specialist, and infantryman. In recognition of his service, Colt Bulot of Gilbert, AZ, received honors such as Belgium Airborne Wings and Italian Airborne wings, as well as a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in combat.

The Purple Heart was created by General George Washington in 1872 to recognize bravery in combat. After World War II, the award’s meaning shifted to acknowledge injuries. It has since expanded to recognize more varied types of injuries and combat, including injuries sustained in friendly fire or terrorist attacks. Additionally, combat veterans with mild traumatic brain injuries are eligible to receive a Purple Heart.

While an individual can apply for the award, more typically a command superior applies on behalf of a soldier, submitting an awards package that details their eligibility. To date, the military has issued approximately 1.7 million Purple Hearts.