My father and I were a little confused on the purple rifleman patch. I think you get it if you're a woman, he thinks you need to earn it on a specific date. Which is correct?
The purple patch is not gender specific. I reciecved mine by qualifying as a rifleman on the anniversary date of April 19th, 1775.
The purple patch is a commemorative for a special lady instructor from Florida. Maybe some one will tell the story. ~ Two Wolves
Resurrecting this thread.
Here's what I found regarding the history and reason behind the Purple Patch. It's a good one.
Gus
The purple Rifleman patch was established to honor the former Appleseed instructor Mlle Yottnottin. It may be awarded at the discretion of the Shoot Boss. When awarding this patch, it is recommended the story of the patch be shared, as its important history for Project Appleseed.
SEPTEMBER 4TH 2009
Yesterday one of our best was called home. I learned late yesterday from Willorith that Madam Yotnottin had passed away. She came to an event at Myakka, Florida last year as an attendee along with her boss, Willorith. She liked it so much that she attended a second event, worked hard, got into shape and made Rifleman on the third try. She then set out on the IIT trail and was getting very good at passing on the heritage to her fellow Americans.
Although I only knew her briefly, I came to greatly respect her. She was always very positive and had a habit of wearing something purple - both traits that I personally found most endearing. She was as helpful as she was pleasant to be around. Unlike me, she needed no instruction on leaving her ego at the door as she had none to begin with.
I just served with her last Sunday and she worked closely with a female attendee that we had all tried to assist, but with little effect. Madam Yotnottin took her from a score not worth repeating to the upper 100s in 30 minutes.
As we all shook hands to leave the event last Sunday, I don't suppose that anyone of us didn't expect to be here the next weekend. Words cannot express the sadness I feel. Carpe Diem (seize the day) - you never know when it will be your last.
The light of Liberty has one less hand supporting it today.
Fred had a patch made in her honor. It is the Purple patch. Those that wear it need to know they are representing a wonderful woman with passion and persistence: a true riflewoman. She was the first Appleseed Instructor to pass.
God bless you Madam Yotnottin, may your days be filled with many rewarding hours walking the firing line and evenings chatting with the Founders around the campfire.
Thank you, Gus, for bringing this post back to life and sharing the story of the Purple Patch!
:1luvu
There was one purple patch in the shoot bosses' box when I finally shot expert. Of course I picked that one. Didn't know the story until about 2 or 3 years later.
Wow. I had no idea.
Definitely something to share when referencing the purple patch.
Gus, thank you so much for resurrecting this story. It is a reminder of two very important things: 1) those involved in Appleseed care deeply about others in Appleseed and 2) each person can make a big difference in someone else's life.