Purple Heart Medal 2019 Stamps

Description

2019 Purple Heart
• Commemorates the famous purple heart medal awarded to those who have been wounded or killed in action.

Stamp Category: Definitive
Value: 55¢ First Class Mail Rate (Forever)
First Day of Issue: October 4, 2019
First Day City: Noblesville, Indiana
Printing Method: Offset, Microprint
Format: Panes of 20
Tagging: Phosphor Tagged Paper, Block Tagged

History the stamp represents: Brave men and women have been risking their lives for our country since its very beginning. From 1917 onward, those who suffered injuries in the line of duty have received the Purple Heart Medal. By 2019, nearly two million had been awarded.

Countless tales of heroism follow the soldiers who hold Purple Hearts. This is especially true for the 442nd Infantry Regiment of the United States Army – the most decorated unit in US military history. The 442nd was created during World War II and consisted entirely of Japanese Americans (known as Nisei). They faced discrimination and suspicion from their fellow soldiers, and still went on to fight gallantly for their country. They often faced seemingly insurmountable odds, but still managed to come out victorious.

Approximately 14,000 men served in the 442nd Infantry Regiment. Of this, 9,486 Purple Heart Medals were awarded, 4,000 Bronze Star Medals, 8 Presidential Unit Citations, and 21 Medals of Honor. In 2010, the unit was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, and in 2012, all survivors were made chevaliers (knights) of the French Legion d/Honneur for their efforts to liberate France and rescue the “Lost Battalion.”

For soldiers like those of the 442nd Infantry Regiment, the Purple Heart Medal acknowledges all the sacrifices they have made for our country.