The Badge of Military Merit is “one of the most recognized and respected medals awarded to members of the U.S. armed forces” according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The Purple Heart, as it is also known, is the nation’s oldest military award. It was introduced by General George Washington in 1782.
When I was out walking my dog Goldi the other day in downtown Loveland, we happened by an older model pickup with a camper attached. In the driver’s seat sat was an older gentleman. He was alone and parked with his window down as if he was waiting for me. As we approached the front of the vehicle I noticed the license plate. It bore the insignia of a veteran awarded a Purple Heart. I just had to stop and say hello and thank this man for his service.
Lawrence is a veteran of the Korean War and the recipient of the Badge of Military Merit, the Purple Heart. His brother was killed in that war along with almost 40,000 other Americans. More than 100,000 were wounded.
Lawrence has lived in Loveland since 1959, the year I was born and just a few years after the Korean War ended.
While I don’t know why Lawrence was sitting in his pickup that day, I believe I was supposed to meet him and thank him for his service. We owe a lot to the men and women who put on a soldier’s uniform and fight for this country. Thank you Lawrence. It was honor meeting you and I hope our paths cross again.