Raynors 2012-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/27/2012
A complete and authentic issue of the Continental Journal and Weekly Advertiser, Boston, August 29, 1782, 4pp., disbound and cut clean at spine. VG. From the front page an extraordinary report, “Extract From General Orders, Head Quarters, Newburgh, August 17, 1782.” In large part, “The General ever desirous to cherish virtuous ambition in his soldiers, as well as to foster and encourage every species of Military merit, directs that whenever any singularly meritorious action is performed, the author of it shall be permitted to wear on his facings over the left breast, the fFgure of a Heart in Purple cloth, or silk, edged with narrow lace or binding. Not only instances of unusual gallantry, but also of extraordinary fidelity and essential service in any way shall meet with a due reward. Before this favour can be conferred on any man, the particular fact, or facts, on which it is to be grounded must be set forth to the Commander in chief accompanied with certificates from the Commanding officers of the regiment and brigade to which the Candadate for reward belonged, or other incontestable proofs, and upon granting it, the name and regiment of the person with the action so certified are to be enrolled in the book of merit which will be kept at the orderly office. Men who have merited this last distinction to be suffered to pass all guards and sentinals which officers are permitted to do. The road to glory in a patriot army and a free country is thus open to all. This order is also to have retrospect to the earliest stages of the war, and to be considered as a permanent one.” Although this printing of the General Order is not signed in type by Washington, it was issued directly by him and these are the words he used to issue it. This is thought to be the first time in modern history that military awards had been presented to common soldiers. Originally issued under the name of ‘Badge of Military Merit’ this became the forerunner to the Purple Heart.
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