Springfield, VA, July 13, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A., Inc. (MOPH) issues the following statement: “MOPH takes umbrage to the suggestion by Representative Steve Cohen on July 12, 2018, that the Purple Heart medal, America’s oldest military decoration awarded only to the brave and patriotic men and women who have given their lives, or were wounded on the battlefield or by terrorists while defending the freedoms that all Americans are so fortunate to enjoy, should be given to a witness for merely having to endure questions by Members of Congress in a Congressional hearing.
“Congressional hearings exemplify our very democratic process and principles, and such a suggestion is not only demeaning of the medal, but the legacy of America’s sons and daughters whose names are written in blood in the annals of history.
“According to National Commander Neil Van Ess, “The MOPH membership is appalled by these demeaning remarks toward our Purple Heart Medal, and objects on behalf of the families of those brave young men and woman who were wounded or perished while earning their Purple Heart medal. Their service and sacrifice is sacrosanct and should not be used for political gamesmanship.”
The "Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A. Inc.," (MOPH) was formed in 1932 for the protection and mutual interest of all combat wounded veterans and active duty men and women who have received the decoration. Chartered by the Congress, the MOPH is unique among Veteran Service Organizations in that all its members were wounded in combat or by an act of terrorism. For their sacrifice, they were awarded the Purple Heart Medal. With grants from the MOPH Service Foundation, the MOPH and its Auxiliary promote patriotism, fraternalism, and the preservation of America's military history. Most importantly, through Veteran Service Officers, they provide comfort and assistance to all Veterans and their families, especially those requiring claims assistance with the VA. Programs of the MOPH include VA Volunteer Service, Suicide Awareness, Homeless Veterans Assistance, JROTC Leadership Awards, Scholarships, Americanism, Purple Heart Trail and Cities, Welfare, and numerous community service programs, all with the objective of service to Veterans and their families.