Purple Heart Miniature MedalPurple Heart Miniature Medal The Purple Heart Medal (PH) is a decoration presented in the name of the President of the United States to recognize members of the U. S. military who have been wounded or killed in battle. It differs from other military decorations in that a "recommendation" from a superior is not required, but rather individuals are entitled based on meeting certain criteria found in AR 600 8 22. This criteria was expanded on March 28,