The initial Purple Heart, designated as the Badge of Military Merit, was established
by George Washington, then the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, by
order from his Newburgh, New York headquarters. The Badge of Military Merit was
only awarded to three Revolutionary War soldiers. From then on as its legend grew;
so did its appearance. Although never abolished, the award of the badge was not proposed again officially until after World War I.

The first Purple Heart, called a Badge of Merit, is depicted being awarded
by General George Washington.