The first U.S. military decoration, instituted by General George Washington in 1782 and awarded for bravery in action. The records show that only three men received it during the American Revolutionary War, all of them noncommissioned officers. Two of these coveted badges still exist.

The original medal, sewn onto the coat, was simply a purple heart-shaped piece of cloth edged with silver braid. Although this was the medal of honor of the Revolution, it seems to have been forgotten for about 150 years.

The 200th anniversary of Washington's birth marked the revival of the award (February. 22, 1932).