It is estimated that around two million Purple Hearts have been awarded by the U.S. Military since World War I.  Sen. Frank Simpson authored Senate Bill 232 to recognize Oklahoma’s 1,340 recipients by designating Oklahoma a Purple Heart State.

“So many Oklahomans have sacrificed life and limb for our country,” said Simpson, R-Springer. “We want to honor their service and sacrifice and ensure it’s never forgotten by designating Oklahoma a Purple Heart State.”

The Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to U.S. military members in the name of the president to those wounded or killed while serving since April 5, 1917.  The Purple Heart is different from most military awards and decorations as individuals are not “recommended” for the decoration but rather are entitled to it.