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THE PURPLE HEART



Today we will begin an 11 part series on the origins of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, some of its famous recipients, and finally, the heroic acts of one such recipient.


The “Purple Heart” was initially called the “Fidelity Medallion.”   During its origins in the Revolutionary War, it was better known as the “Andre Capture Medal” for the capture of the traitor, Major John Andre.  Major Andre betrayed America during the Revolutionary War by sneaking secret documents to the British enemy that would have done grave harm to the control of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The Purple Heart medallion originated in the colonial times of 1780.  The front of the commemorative decoration was adorned with a heart, flanked by leafed stalks with the word “Fidelity” above this. On its reverse side the Latin phrase, Armor Patriae Vincit,” or love of country conquers, is inscribed.
The first issue of this prestigious medal of bravery was awarded by General George Washington to Privates John Paulding, David Williams and Issac Van Wart for their capture of the Revolutionary War criminal, Major John Andre, a British spy.  

In our next blog we will continue with the historic origins of the Purple Heart and Major Andre's betrayal.

Armor Patriae Vincit

 



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THE CAPTURE OF MAJOR ANDRE In the second installment of our eleven part series, we continue with the history of the Purple Heart’s beginnings during the revolutionary war. In the late 1700’s, Major John Andre was a spy operating under the direction of one of American History’s famous traitors, Major General Benedict Arnold.  Arnold was made famous through his betrayal, in turning over the U.S. military Post at West Point for cash and a command in the British Army.  Needless to say the word “traitor” is synonymous with Arnold’s name to this day. Before becoming the famous traitor, Major General Arnold commanded West Point while secretly in collusion with British Intelligence for the purpose of surrendering this American Post to the enemy.  To accomplish this Arnold handed over secret American documents to be delivered by Major Andre into the hands of the British enemy.   Wearing an American uniform, Major Andre set out on his treacherous mission, travelli...
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