From USA Today: President Donald Trump is hosting nearly 100 past Purple Heart recipients at the White House in recognition of veterans wounded in military action ‒ including some who gifted their badges to Trump after he survived an assassination attempt last year.
The ceremony, set for 4 p.m. ET Aug. 7 in the White House East Room, coincides with National Purple Heart Day, which commemorates America’s oldest military decoration, one that originated under President George Washington in 1782 to honor those killed or injured in combat.
Recipients in attendance will include three veterans ‒ Thomas Matteo, Gerald Enter Jr. and John Ford ‒ who sent their Purple Heart medals to Trump last year following the July 13, 2024, assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, when Trump’s right ear was grazed by a bullet from a would-be assassin.
Also attending will be Chris LaCivita, Trump’s 2024 campaign manager and a veteran of the U.S. Marines Corps who received a Purple Heart in 1991 for his service in the Gulf War.
READ MORE from USA Today about additional Purple Heart recipients to be honored today.
🚨TODAY AT THE WHITE HOUSE: Trump to honor 100 Purple Heart recipients at White House ceremony💜 https://t.co/i26hHOnF1F
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) August 7, 2025
— VA Secretary Doug Collins (@SecVetAffairs) August 7, 2025
This Purple Heart Day, we honor those who have laid down their life for our country and those who carry the wounds of battle with them today.
On behalf of a grateful nation, we thank all Purple Heart recipients for their bravery and fortitude. pic.twitter.com/BU5wl5huN9
— Scott Turner (@SecretaryTurner) August 7, 2025
Today we honor the brave
The Purple Heart is the oldest military award and one of the most prestigious the U.S. bestows upon its service members.
On Purple Heart Day, we pause to honor and remember the bravery and sacrifice of our wounded and fallen heroes.
Semper Fidelis pic.twitter.com/rxUFvfm1fq
— U.S. Marines (@USMC) August 7, 2025
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