Purple Heart Medal - U.S. Military Decoration for Combat Wounds #2004438 (License: Personal Use)

This image shows the contemporary Purple Heart medal, established in 1932 to revive George Washington’s original Badge of Military Merit. The heart-shaped gold medal bears Washington’s left-facing profile on a purple enamel field, topped by a shield with three stars and red-and-white stripes, flanked by green laurel leaves. It hangs from a silk ribbon with wide purple center and narrow white edges, symbolizing courage and sacrifice.

Used on military history pages, veteran memorial sites, government defense portals, and educational resources about U.S. military awards; targets users researching military honors, service recognition, or historical insignia.