Celebrating American Courage = (NAPSA)—Acelebration honoring the nation’s brave military men and women is expected to draw salutes from Americans across the country. The Purple Heart is awarded in the name of the President of the United States to any memberof an Armed Force who has been wounded or killed, or who has died or maydie after being wounded. For 75 years, the Military Order of the Purple Heart has worked to educate people about the award and preserve the memories of those who have wornit. To mark its 75th anniversary, the order will hold a gala celebration in New Windsor, New York. New Windsor is where General George Washington held his last encampment. Washington created the medal eventually known as the Purple Heart 225 years ago. Celebrating The Past A General George Washington reenactor will appear at the gala, escorted by the 24-piece Fife and Drum Corps from the 3rd Infantry’s Old Guard, a ceremonial Army unit. Also appearing will be the mounted cavalry from the First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry (FTPCC), the oldest remaining cavalry unit in America. The FTPCC horsemen actually accompanied General Washington and provided mounted security for his movement around thebattlefield. They will wear the uniforms of the period. A gala event will celebrate Purple Heart winners and the history of the medal. The Brigade of the American Revolution, an organized group of Colonial reenactors from around the country, will also appear. Both men and women will wear period costumes to add Colonial flavor to the event. A reenactment of the presentation of the Badge of Military Merit, which was the precursor to the Purple Heart, will be performed. A History Of Courage General Washington created the award to present to his most courageous enlisted soldiers. General Douglas MacArthur had the current Purple Heart redesigned and issued in 1932 to be awarded to those military personnel killed or woundedin action with the enemy. The gala will be held on August 7 of this year. Numerous dignitaries and national politicians have already accepted invitations to appear.
