The Purple Heart

About Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum Trust, Inc. is responsible for one of the only memorials in the United States dedicated solely to all of our military personnel, regardless of their branch of service, status, era or conflict. Our mission is to preserve a lasting tribute to those men and women who unselfishly gave of themselves in serving their country, particularly during American conflicts. Through educational outreach and programs supporting our veterans, we promote the significance of the facility to the community as a living memorial, an educational asset, and cultural treasure.

About the class

The Purple Heart is one of the best-known military decorations. Established shortly after World War I, the medal is awarded to those who are wounded or killed in action against an enemy while serving in the United States military. In this interactive class, we'll learn all about the history of the Purple Heart and hear stories from the Soldiers & Sailors collection about individual recipients. We'll also play a game of "Fact or fiction?" that will test your knowledge of this award.

Meet your instructors, Tim and Michael.

Tim Neff, Director of Museum and Education: A social studies teacher, Neff began working at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum in 2002. He has since developed an education department that offers a variety of interactive and engaging programs.

Michael Kraus, Curator of Collections: A well-known military historian, Kraus has authored several Civil War books and has been tapped as a consultant for numerous films and documentaries.