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Country: United States of America
Established: The Purple Heart traces its roots back to 1782 when General George Washington established the Badge of Military Merit. This makes it the oldest American military award still presented to American service members. The modern Purple Heart was officially established in 1932 by Army General Douglas MacArthur, who revived and redesigned the award in time for George Washington's 200th birthday.
Criteria:
Purple Heart
Specific criteria include:

  • Injuries caused by enemy bullets, shrapnel, or other projectiles

  • Wounds from enemy-placed mines or traps

  • Injuries resulting from enemy-released chemical, biological, or nuclear agents

  • Wounds caused by vehicle or aircraft accidents due to enemy fire
  • Notes: The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving after 5 April 1917. It is not "recommended" but rather awarded automatically when a service member meets the specific criteria.
     
    Recipients - World War I Aces
    1 Flag Lufbery, Gervais Raoul
    Total Records: 1
     
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