RICHARD HENRY LEE CHAPTER

1743 Lauren Lane
Auburn, AL 36830-7563

12 August 1996

Editor-in-Chief
Opelika-Auburn News
Opelika, Alabama

Dear Sir:

The month of August is sometimes called 'dog days.' About two hundred twenty years ago, however, it was 'war days.' Our patriot ancestors were engaged in the War of the Revolution that secured our independence from the tyranny of King George III, without which we would not enjoy the benefits of our blessed American Republic and our individual freedoms.

The month of August deserves to be cherished and respected by Americans, for it was on August 7, 1782 that General George Washington established the first two decorations to be granted to common soldiers.

The first of the awards was the 'Badge of Distinction,' a strip of white cloth awarded for three years of service. This award, now known as a 'hash mark,' continues in use by our United States Armed Forces.

The second of the awards was the 'Badge of Military Merit,' a figure of a heart in purple cloth or silk, edged with narrow lace or binding, awarded for 'Singularly meritorious service, instances of unusual gallantry and extraordinary fidelity and faithful service.' Only three of these badges are known to have been awarded. The 'Badge of Military Merit' is often compared to the 'Purple Heart Medal' established on the bicentennial of George Washington's birth, February 22, 1932. The 'Purple Heart Medal' is awarded to any armed service personnel wounded in combat or to the next of kin of those killed in action.

The Richard Henry Lee Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution proudly honors in this month of August, all American armed services personnel who have been awarded the 'Purple Heart Medal.'

Prospective members and others interested in the patriotic, historical, and educational objectives of the Sons of the American Revolution are welcome to call Chapter President William A. Segraves at (334)826-2988 for further information.

Compatriot William A. Segraves, President
Richard Henry Lee Chapter SAR