Gen. George Washington started a magnificent tradition with the creation of the Purple Heart decoration as a way to honor the brave soldiers under his command.

The tradition of recognition for valor and sacrifice continues. The Purple Heart, the oldest U.S. military decoration, will be commemorated with a 37-cent U.S. stamp for issuance May 30 — the Friday after Memorial Day.

The medal is awarded in the name of the president of the United States to members of the military who have been wounded or killed in action. The new stamp will feature a photo of one of two Purple Hearts awarded to James Lofts Fowler of Alexandria, Va. Fowler was a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marines and was serving as battalion commander of the Third Battalion, Fourth Marines when he received his Purple Heart in 1968 during the Vietnam War.

On Aug. 7, 1782, during the Revolutionary War, Washington issued an order that established a badge of distinction for meritorious action. The badge consisted of a heart made of purple cloth. The award was distinctive because it was available to the lower ranks at a time when only officers were eligible for decorations. “The road to glory in a patriotic army,” Washington wrote “is open to all.”

First-day-of-issue postmarks of the new stamp can be obtained by mail. You can purchase the stamps at your local post office after May 30.