Beech Tree News Network

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5837 and the Butler County Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution will once again honor those that have received the Purple Heart. The Purple Heart Recognition  will be held on August 2, 2014 at 10:00am on the Butler County Courthouse Lawn.
A special presentation will take place to honor one of Butler County's young veteran.
Butler County and the City of Morgantown became a Purple Heart County /City in 2013.We are proud to continue the recognition of the recipients.
The Purple Heart was first called the "Badge of Military Merit," and was introduced by George Washington in 1782. It is one of the most recognized and respected medals awarded to members of the U. S. armed forces. The Purple  Heart is also the nation's oldest military award. Only three soldiers are known to have received the Original "Badge of Military Merit." Sgt. Daniel Bissell of the 2nd Connecticut Regiment of the Continental Line; Sgt. William Brown of the 5th Connecticut Regiment of the Continental Line and Agt. Elijah Churchill of the 2nd Continental Dragoons, also a Connecticut regiment.
For unknown reasons the medal was not awarded again. In 1927 Gen, Charles Summerall presented a bill to congress to reinstate the "Badge of Military Merit." But nothing was done until the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth.
Several times in the years following Presidents extended the eligibility. President Truman moved the date to include the World War I
starting  5 April 1917. John Kennedy extended eligibility to "any civilian national." Ronald Reagan authorized the award as a result of terrorist attacks.
The Purple Heart is ranked immediately behind the Bronze Star and ahead of the Defense Meritorious Service Medal in order of precedence.
So join us on August 2, 2014 at 10 AM to honor the men and women who have received the Purple Heart.