Sandy Kozel

Dustin Lee Hoffman is 78 years old today.

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.

Ed Donahue

 
Joanne "Jo" Rowling is 50 today.

Ross Simpson

Mike Gracia