Some POWs Eligible for Purple Heart

0 Comments | Insight on the News, Oct 16, 2000 | by John Elvin

There has been some question about whether prisoners of war (POWs) wounded or injured while in enemy captivity are eligible for the Purple Heart decoration. Apparently there were rules on the books from the early days of the Vietnam War permitting such an award, but those rules were not retroactive. According to a report by the American Forces Press Service, that situation was remedied by a little-known clause of the National Defense Authorization Act of 1996.

So, as of 1996, POWs who were captives in wars prior to 1962, such as the Korean War or World War II, may apply for the Purple Heart. "Supporting documentation is required and may include copies of repatriation medical exams, or a witness statement from a cell mate, for example, stating their buddy was abused at the hands of captors," according to the report. The injuries or wounds must be deliberately inflicted by captors; injuries incurred in the course of activities such as a work detail probably would not qualify.

More information on eligibility and the application process may be obtained from the Military Order of the Purple Heart's Web site (www.purpleheart.org) or by mail at 5413-B Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22151-3960. The telephone number is (703) 642-5360.