One of America’s most decorated Vietnam Veterans will share his extraordinary story of courage, sacrifice, and resilience during Washington Memorial Chapel’s annual National Purple Heart Day observance on Friday, August 7.
Hosted by the Washington Memorial Chapel Veterans Commission, the evening will feature keynote speaker Richard Custer, a five-time Purple Heart recipient whose lifelong commitment to supporting fellow servicemembers has made him one of the nation’s most respected advocates for wounded veterans. The program will also pay tribute to U.S. Army Green Beret Staff Sgt. Marc J. Small, a Collegeville, PA native who gave his life while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom.
The Purple Heart traces its origins to General George Washington’s Badge of Military Merit, established in 1782 to recognize extraordinary courage and sacrifice. That history makes Washington Memorial Chapel—built as a living memorial to Washington and the Continental Army in the heart of Valley Forge—a uniquely meaningful place to honor those who have shed blood in defense of the United States.
Custer knows the cost of service firsthand.
During two combat tours in Vietnam, he was wounded five separate times while leading soldiers under enemy fire. His extraordinary heroism earned him five Purple Hearts, four Bronze Stars, three Army Commendation Medals for Valor, two Air Medals recognizing more than 65 combat support missions, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and distinguished Vietnamese Unit Valor and Humanitarian awards.
Following his military service, Custer dedicated his life to supporting fellow Veterans through organizations including the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Disabled American Veterans, and behavioral health programs serving Veterans living with post-traumatic stress. His remarks will reflect on the enduring meaning of sacrifice, resilience, and ensuring the stories of America’s combat-wounded heroes are never forgotten.
The evening will begin with a dinner reception at 5:30 PM in the Chapel’s newly renovated Patriot’s Hall. Sponsored, in part, by Mission BBQ, the reception will honor the memory of Staff Sgt. Small. While the dinner is complimentary, a $10 suggested donation will help support the Veterans Commission’s ongoing programs serving Veterans and preserving their stories. To RSVP, visit https://evite.me/b3abpVHhKs.
Following the reception, guests will gather inside the historic Chapel at 7 PM for a solemn National Purple Heart Day service featuring prayer, sacred music, reflection, and the tolling of the Chapel’s Carillon bells in remembrance of Purple Heart recipients throughout American history.
Questions regarding the event may be directed to Maeve Vogan at: veteranscommission@wmchapel.org
The Washington Memorial Chapel is located at 2000 Valley Forge Park Rd, King of Prussia, PA 19406.
About the WMC Veterans Commission
The WMC Veterans Commission exists to honor all those who have served our country; to show God’s love through service; to provide spiritual support to active-duty service members, veterans, and their families; and to help build stronger relationships among veterans and surrounding communities. To learn more, visit:
WMC Veterans Commission.
To learn more about Washington Memorial Chapel or schedule a tour, visit:
Washington Memorial Chapel
Washington Memorial Heritage
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