on Wednesday, the Senate passed the VFW supported Private Corrado Piccoli Purple Heart Preservation Act. Over past decades, businesses specializing in military artifacts have been selling military-issued Purple Hearts on the public market for inflated prices, which have made it extremely difficult for veterans and their loved ones to track and obtain lost or stolen medals. This bill puts an end to this practice by making it illegal for any business to sell military-issued Purple Hearts. A vote in the U.S. House is expected following August’s recess. The Senate also passed a bipartisan, joint resolution this past week commemorating Purple Heart Day, which is August 7. Purple Heart Day recognizes the sacrifices of those who have earned the Purple Heart Medal and is commemorated each year on the anniversary of George Washington creating the "Badge for Military Merit,” the precursor to the Purple Heart. The resolution supports the goals and ideals of Purple Heart Day, encourages citizens to learn about the history of the Purple Heart Medal, and requests that the president issue an annual proclamation calling on the people of the U.S. to demonstrate support for Purple Heart recipients.