Today in Johnson City History, Friday, August 7, 2026
The Purple Heart and much more
Wednesday, August 7, 1782: On this day, two hundred and forty-four years ago, “George Washington created the Purple Heart, America’s oldest military decoration. Washington called the award the Badge of Military Merit. His order of that day read in part:
“’The General, ever desirous to cherish virtuous ambition in his soldiers as well as foster and encour…