SRC-AXB S.R. 637 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.R. 637 By: Jackson Veterans Affairs 4/22/1999 As Filed DIGEST Currently, there is an effort underway to recommend that the Postmaster General issue an Order of the Purple Heart stamp in 1999, to honor American men and women wounded or killed in defense of American ideals. The Purple Heart was first awarded by George Washington in 1782, during the Revolutionary War, and it was revived in 1932, the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. The Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration in the world that is still in present use, was the first award made available to common soldiers, and roughly 600,000 Americans alive today are recipients of this award. The 200th anniversary of the death of George Washington is 1999, and this resolution expresses support for a postage stamp to honor Purple Heart recipients. PURPOSE As proposed, S.R. 637 submits the following resolutions: That the Senate of the State of Texas, 76th Legislature, express support for a stamp to honor wounded men and women who fought on behalf of the United States and its citizens. That a copy of this resolution be prepared as an endorsement of the expression of support for the postage stamp, by the Texas Senate.