Members of Athol American Legion Post 102’s honor guard fire a volley to honor the 18 American service members who have died in the war with Iran. GREG VINE / For the Athol Daily NewsATHOL – To mark National Purple Heart Day, the Athol American Legion E.H. Phillips Post 102 held ceremonies to recognize three Vietnam veterans who received the medal and remember the 18 U.S. service members who have died during the conflict with Iran. Post Commander Brian Dodge told attendees, that in addition to recognizing National Purple Heart Day, “The Athol Legion, from this day forward, will be celebrating the lives of those lost in the Iranian war. Dodge noted that the Purple Heart, originally known as the Badge of Military Merit, was introduced by George Washington in 1782. It is hung from a purple ribbon with white borders and is awarded to service members wounded or killed in the line of duty.