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1989.1112.6 a-c; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
1989.1112.6 a-c; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
Purple Heart Medal
1989.1112.6 a-c; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
1989.1112.6 a-c; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum

Purple Heart Medal

Artifact ID1989.1112.6 a-c
Object Type Medal
Gifter
Designer
Maker
Date before 1975
Medium metal, enamel, ribbon
DimensionsOverall H 6 1/2 in x W 3 1/2 in x D 1 in (16.5 cm x 8.9 cm x 2.5 cm )
Physical Description(a) A golden heart medal displays a smaller purple heart, which features a golden relief of General Washington's profile. Above this heart is Washington’s coat of arms, a white shield with two horizontal red bands below three red stars. Sprays of green leaves flank the shield. It is suspended by a rectangular metal loop with rounded corners that is attached to a vertically-striped purple and white ribbon.

(b) A horizontal metal pin displays a purple ribbon with a vertical white stripe on each end.

(c) Golden borders decorate the edges of a black box. The interior of the lid is lined with golden fabric, and the bottom portion is padded with golden fabric.
Historical NoteAllen D. Davis earned this medal and other awards and materials during his long military service, which spanned World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He returned the materials to President Gerald R. Ford in an act of political protest following Ford's decision to grant clemency to draft evaders. He also included a letter to President Ford in which he explained his decision to return his materials.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from the general public to President Ford during his term in office. It was received through the Executive Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in September, 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.
National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPublic Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)
Use Restriction Status Unrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
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