What does it take to receive the Silver Star, the Purple Heart or even the Medal of Honor? It's sad to admit but for the longest time I misunderstood the purpose of the Purple Heart. So let's talk about the first female recipient of the Silver Star for actions in combat as well as what it takes to get the rest of these medals.
https://valor.defense.gov/Description-of-Awards/

https://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/purple-heart.pdf