Today, August 7, is National Purple Heart Day.
This solemn day honors the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who were wounded or made the ultimate sacrifice in combat. The Purple Heart medal is awarded to those who have shed blood or lost their lives in service to our country — a powerful symbol of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism.
Originally established by General George Washington in 1782 as the Badge of Military Merit, the Purple Heart remains one of the most revered military decorations. More than 1.8 million service members have received this honor, each with a story of resilience and selflessness.
Simply pause and remember that freedom is never free.
To every Purple Heart recipient — and to the families of those who never returned — we see you, we thank you, and we honor you.
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Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
