Honoring our notable minority Purple Heart recipients

Every year on August 7, we observe Purple Heart Day to honor the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who have been injured or lost their lives in service to our country.

This year, the Center for Minority Veterans shines a light on remarkable minority servicemen and women whose incredible journeys exemplify true courage. Join us as we commemorate Purple Heart Day by diving into the inspiring narratives of some of these exceptional individuals.

Colin L. Powell, awarded Purple Heart in 1963 (Jamaican American)

Although famously known for his roles as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and U.S. Secretary of State, Colin Powell was also a Purple Heart recipient. During the Vietnam War, then-Captain Powell served in the Army and served as an advisor to a South Vietnamese infantry battalion. He was wounded by a punji spike booby trap on patrol. This experience left him physically and emotionally scarred, but it also shaped his perspective on leadership, duty and the cost of war. Powell’s Purple Heart reminds us that leadership is intertwined with sacrifice.

Quinzell Hayes, awarded Purple Heart in 1966 (African American)

Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sergeant Quinzell Hayes was a dedicated husband and proud father of four daughters. He demonstrated extraordinary courage during the Vietnam War as a key member of the 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, part of the esteemed 3rd Marine Division. His valor was put to the test on March 26, 1966, when he was gravely wounded in action while facing the challenges of combat in the jungles of Vietnam. He went on to later receive a second Purple Heart for his subsequent deployment to Vietnam. Despite the perilous circumstances, his commitment to service and leadership left a lasting impact on those around him. His dedication to service inspired one of his daughters, Jacqueline “Jacquie” Hayes-Byrd, who is now the executive director for the Center for Women Veterans and the acting executive director for the Center for Minority Veterans.

Pascal Cleatus Poolaw, awarded Purple Heart in 1967 (Native American)

Pascal Cleatus Poolaw, a distinguished Kiowa Native American, is the most decorated Native American soldier in U.S. history. His remarkable journey included three Purple Hearts earned for his bravery in World War II, Korea and posthumously in Vietnam. From fierce battles in Belgium to rescuing comrades under fire, Poolaw consistently demonstrated extraordinary courage.

After retiring in 1962 following the Korean War, his story took another turn in 1967 when he rejoined the Army during the Vietnam War. With three of his four sons already serving, he hoped to protect the youngest from combat after he received a draft notice. Selflessly, Poolaw chose to resign his commission to serve as a non-commissioned officer, an attempt to join his son during his deployment. Although he was not ultimately able to deploy with his youngest son, he tragically sacrificed his life while saving a wounded comrade in Vietnam. His legacy is a powerful testament to the proud warrior tradition of the Kiowa people, reflecting selflessness and unwavering bravery that continues to inspire.

Heriberto Segovia “Eddie” Hernandez, Awarded Purple Heart 1968 (Mexican American)

Heriberto “Eddie” Hernandez, a U.S. Coast Guardsman, bravely served during the Vietnam War. Despite his very young age and humble beginnings, he volunteered for hazardous river patrol missions in Vietnam. On December 5, 1968, Hernandez was mortally wounded when enemy forces ambushed his patrol boat. For his courage and sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.

Antoinette Scott, awarded Purple Heart 2003 (African American)

Washington, D.C., National Guard (DCNG) Veteran Antoinette Scott is the first woman from D.C. to receive the Purple Heart. She served eight years, deploying to Iraq in 2003 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her injuries occurred during a mission when she was responsible for transporting soldiers to Baghdad International Airport in which her convoy was attacked. While remaining calm and focused on the safety of her fellow soldiers, she was able to successfully get the group to a safe location with no casualties. However, the shrapnel from the explosive device struck the truck she was driving, which led to life-threatening injuries in her head. Thanks to the quick actions of her team, she was able to be evacuated in time for emergency care, saving her life.

Florence B. Choe, awarded Purple Heart 2009 (Pacific Islander)

Lieutenant Florence B. Choe honorably served as a United States Navy Medical Service Corps officer. During her military career, she demonstrated unwavering commitment to the care of service members and civilians alike. In 2009, while deployed to Afghanistan supporting medical operations, she was tragically killed in action during an insurgent attack from a singular rogue Afghan Army soldier. For her sacrifice and the injuries sustained in the line of duty, she was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.

How you can support Purple Heart recipients

1. Visit The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor website at https://www.thepurpleheart.com/.
2. Participate or Volunteer: Many local VA centers, Veterans Service Organizations and Purple Heart chapters welcome volunteers, especially for commemorative events on August 7.
3. Share their stories: Media, social platforms and community events are powerful tools. Highlighting individuals like Powell, Hayes, Poolaw, Hernandez, Scott and Choe educates and inspires.
4. Celebrate with respect: If you see someone wearing a Purple Heart or Purple Heart frame, offer thanks. Acknowledging their service goes a long way. For our fallen, you may visit the Veterans Legacy Memorial (VLM), an online memorial that honors more than 10 million interred Veterans.