Since its origin during the Revolutionary War, the Purple Heart has served as a recognition of sacrifice and heroism by those in the U.S. military.

The Roll of Honor is an ongoing work in progress, as there is no comprehensive list of Purple Heart recipients. The Roll of Honor does represent all 50 States, Puerto Rico, Guam, Samoa, the Philippines and the District of Columbia. There are recipients from the American Civil War through today.

Eligibility for a Purple Heart applies to service members who suffered a wound: 1) As the direct or indirect result of enemy action, and 2) The wound required treatment by a medical officer at the time of the injury.

The Purple Heart is awarded for being wounded in battle. The oak leaf cluster is given for the second time being wounded and each time after. The Army and the Air Force use the Oak Leaf Cluster and the Navy and Marines use Stars. Same meaning just a different device.