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How Chenille Embroidery Patches are Production
Chenille is a very popular Embroidery Patch, and its production process is similar to that of ordinary Embroidery Patches. First, we need to choose the felt base fabric of the correct color, and then use a special towel embroidery machine to embroider the ordinary embroidery thread into an arched loop to create a fluffy three-dimensional effect. Finally, trim the complete Chenille Embroidery Patch. [View Details] -
Olympic Medal In Russia Means a Mercedes and Pile of Cash
Olympic Medal In Russia Means a Mercedes and Pile of Cash In Russia, Earning an Olympic Medal at Sochi Means a Mercedes and Pile of Cash Apparently, standing atop the podium in Sochi is even more remarkable than you Imagined for Russian Olympic Medalists. The Moscow Times (h/t Sports Illustrated, CBS Sports) reports each Russian Medalist received a fancy new car commensurate with the Medal he or she received at the 2014 Winter Olympics: Russian athletes who won Gold Medals at the Sochi Winter Olympics have each been rewarded with a Mercedes GL-Class SUV worth $146,500. The Olympians were presented with their brand new set of wheels at a ceremony on Thursday, which was also attended by Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Interfax reported. Silver Medallists were given the keys to Mercedes ML-Class, worth $99,500, and Bronze Medalists will take home a Mercedes GLK-Class, worth $59,500. The Macedonian International News Agency, as cited by both Sports Illustrated and CBS Sports, states that the Olympians didn't just drive off in style but also received a sum of $200,000 for doing their country proud. Winning an Olympic Medal has to be an amazing feeling, especially if done with your countrymen cheering you on. The feeling has to be the kind that lingers for a lifetime, delivering chills with every memory. If not, you can always drive around in your sweet new Mercedes with your very own pile of cash riding shotgun. Make sure it buckles up, though. Of course, not all were of age to drive their new toys. As reported, figure skaters Julia Lipnitskaia (15) and Adelina Sotnikova (17) are too young to drive. That issue is remedied thanks to Prime Minister Medvedev. According to The Macedonian International News Agency, each will get a driver courtesy of a grateful nation. The Moscow Times report states that in 2012, following the London Summer Olympics, Medalists received new Audi cars. The gifts are courtesy of "the Russian Olympians Foundation, a not-for-profit organization set up by a group of businessmen in 2005." Russia certainly has a great deal to celebrate, delivering an exciting and well-run event while finishing atop the Medal count in both the number of Medals (33) as well as gold garnered (13). The United States also awards its athletes with money, although—as pointed out in various reports—success comes with certain tax implications. The Daily Mail's David Martosko states, "The U.S. Olympic Committee awards $25,000 for each Gold Medal, $15,000 for silver and $10,000 for bronze. But top athletes who are in the top income tax bracket, 39.6 per cent, will have to fork over as much as $9,900 of a gold medal payout." The Sochi Gold Medals, which reportedly contain a great deal of silver, are valued at $566. Martosko shares a statement from Americans for Tax Reform: "Because the U.S. is one of only a handful of developed countries that tax income earned abroad, it is likely America's competitors will not be subject to such a tax." There is legislation, however, in the works that might change the tax plight of American Olympians in the future. Fox News reports South Dakota Republican Sen. John Thune has presented a bill that boasts bipartisan support "that would let Olympians off the hook with the IRS." As for the host country's athletes, they made Russian President Vladimir Putin quite proud. The Chicago Tribune quotes the world leader as saying: ou have accomplished the mission assigned to you. The results scored by our national team show that we have left the difficult period in the history of national sports behind us. Any competition where athletes defend the honor of their nation are important and crucial. But the responsibility that rested on the shoulders of our national team was that of the highest level. Only time will tell if Putin's promise is as solid as the country's results at these Games. The 2016 Summer Olympics afford the next opportunity for what might be the most physically taxing way to get a new car. If recent history is any guide, those Russian athletes fortunate enough to win a Medal will be well compensated for their time, pain and sacrifice. And we can only imagine that the debate as to whether our own athletes should be weighed down by taxes on their international success will rage on. However, we think most would jump at the chance to stand atop a podium and listen to the national anthem—even if it meant Uncle Sam waited for them just offstage. [View Details] -
Russian Nobel Medal sale raises for Ukraine children
Russian Nobel Medal sale raises for Ukraine children Journalist Dmitry Muratov, who won prize in 2021, will give the money to the UNICEF humanitarian response for the war in Ukraine. Dmitry Muratov, the Russian editor-in-chief of the independent newspaper Novaya Gazeta, has auctioned off his Nobel Peace Prize Medal for a record $103.5m to help Ukrainian children displaced by the war. The Gold Medal was sold to an as yet unidentified phone bidder at the sale in New York, which was organised by Heritage Auctions. [View Details] -
Guidance: What are the types of Medals - page 2
Guidance: What are the types of Medals - page 2 achievements which benefit the service in the public, for example community engagement with local councils or cadet forces achievements in the field of sport A limited number are awarded each year. Service boards consider recommendations in April and October every year. To find out how to recommend someone go to: Royal Navy: BR 8748 Army: Queen’s Regulations paragraphs 5.392, 10.006 to 10.007 and DIN 2006DIN10-006 for additional information RAF: AP 3392, Volume 4, Leaflet 2006, Annex A Accumulated Campaign Service Medal The Accumulated Campaign Service Medal (ACSM) is awarded to army, RAF, Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel to recognise continued campaign service. To apply for the ACSM, you must have completed 1,080 days aggregated by 1 January 2008 in theatres which would have merited: a General Service Medal 1962-2007 (Northern Ireland, Air Ops Iraq) an Operational Service Medal(Sierra Leone, Afghanistan) an Iraq Medal If your aggregated service falls short of 1,080 days by 1 January 2008, the service will go towards the ACSM 2011. If you go on to complete a further 1,080 days aggregated service by 31 December 2007, you will be awarded a bar. The bar is worn on the ribbon of the ACSM. Accumulated Campaign Service Medal 2011 The Accumulated Campaign Service Medal 2011 The Accumulated Campaign Service Medal (ACSM) 2011 is awarded to army, RAF, Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel to recognise continued campaign service. To apply for the ACSM 2011, you must have completed 720 days aggregated service and be serving either on or after 1 January 2008. Your service must have merited: a General Service Medal 1962-2007 (Northern Ireland, Air Ops Iraq) an Operational Service Medal (Sierra Leone, Afghanistan) an Iraq Medal If you go on to complete a further 720 days aggregated service, you will be awarded a bar. The bar is worn on the ribbon of the ACSM. You can receive more than one bar. Royal Naval Long Service and Good Conduct Medal The Long Service and Good Conduct (LSGC) Medal for the Royal Navy is awarded to personnel in recognition of long service. The regulations were updated on 1 October 2016. To qualify, you must have: 15 years’ reckonable service in the Navy a clear record with no misconduct for at least the last 15 years been serving on or after 29 July 2014, if you’re an officer been serving on or after 1 October 2016, if you’re an ‘other rank’ have all 3 conduct badges with character judged no lower than ‘very good’ You don’t need to apply if you’re currently serving. The MOD medals office is currently processing applications. Talk to your unit HR or go to 2016DIN09-023 or JSP 761 for more information. If you have a disciplinary entry on your record, you will need to wait 15 years from the date of your last offence before you will be eligible again. You should apply through your unit HR. If you have been discharged and are eligible you should apply to the MOD Medal Office. For every additional 10 years’ service with a clear record you’ll be issued a clasp. For example, if you qualify and have served 26 years you will receive the medal and clasp. Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal The Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal The Long Service and Good Conduct (LSGC) Medal for the army is awarded to personnel in recognition of long service. The regulations were updated on 1 October 2016. To qualify, you must have: 15 years’ reckonable service in the army a clear record with no misconduct for at least the last 15 years been serving on or after 29 July 2014, if you’re an officer been serving on or after 1 October 2016, if you’re an ‘other rank’ You don’t need to apply if you’re currently serving. The MOD medals office is currently processing applications. Talk to your unit HR or go to 2016DIN09-023 or JSP 761 for more information. If you have a disciplinary entry on your record, you will need to wait 15 years from the date of your last offence before you will be eligible again. You should apply through your unit HR. If you have been discharged and are eligible you should apply to the MOD Medal Office. For every additional 10 years’ service with a clear record you’ll be issued a clasp. For example, if you qualify and have served 26 years you will receive the medal and clasp. Royal Air Force Long Service and Good Conduct Medal RAF Long Service and Good Conduct Medal The RAF Long Service and Good Conduct Medal The Long Service and Good Conduct (LSGC) Medal for the Royal Air Force is awarded to personnel in recognition of long service. The regulations were updated on 1 October 2016. To qualify, you must have: 15 years’ reckonable service in the RAF a clear record with no misconduct for at least the last 15 years been serving on or after 29 July 2014, if you’re an officer been serving on or after 1 October 2016, if you’re an ‘other rank’ You don’t need to apply if you’re currently serving. The MOD medals office is currently processing applications. Talk to your unit HR or go to 2016DIN09-023 or JSP 761 for more information. If you have a disciplinary entry on your record, you will need to wait 15 years from the date of your last offence before you will be eligible again. You should apply through your unit HR. If you have been discharged and are eligible you should apply to the MOD Medal Office. For every additional 10 years’ service with a clear record you’ll be issued a clasp. For example, if you qualify and have served 26 years you will receive the medal and clasp. Volunteer Reserves Service Medal The Volunteer Reserves Service Medal The Volunteer Reserves Service Medal (VRSM) replaced the separate medals that used to be issued to personnel of the separate Reserve Forces in April 1999. The VRSM is awarded to both officers and other ranks of the: Royal Naval and Royal Marine Reserves Army Reserves (formerly the Territorial Army) Royal Auxiliary Air Force These medals may still be issued for qualifying service ending before 1 April 1999: Royal Naval Reserve Decoration Reserve Long Service and Good Conduct Medal for the Royal Navy and Royal Marine Reserve Territorial Decoration Efficiency Medal for the Army Reserve Air Efficiency Award for the Royal Auxiliary Air Force To be considered for the VRSM, you must have: 10 years’ reckonable service in the Reserve Forces earned a training bounty in 9 out of the 10 qualifying years to have completed a full years training in the year that the 9th bounty was awarded to be serving in the Volunteer Reserves on or after 1 April 1999 If you go on to serve an additional 5 years reckonable service you’ll be issued a clasp. The clasp should be worn on the ribbon of the VRSM. There are complex rules for service that has been both regular and reserve. If you think you might be eligible, please contact your Unit HR or apply to the MOD Medal Office. Further information can be found in DCI JS 53/99 and AP3392 Vol 7 Leaflet 702 Annex B. Cadet Forces Medal The Cadet Forces Medal The Cadet Forces Medal is awarded in recognition of long service in the MOD Sponsored Cadet Forces. To be considered, you must: be a uniformed cadet force adult volunteer have completed 12 years’ qualifying service All uniformed service in the cadet forces over the age of 18 may be aggregated to fulfil the relevant qualifying period: breaks in service are allowed but are not to be counted towards the length of qualifying service. Up to 3 years’ service with any of the following may be used towards the qualifying service for the medal provided it has not been used towards another medal: Regular Forces Volunteer Reserve Forces University Royal Naval Units University Officer Training Corps University Air Squadrons A Clasp will be awarded for each six years’ additional qualifying service (Before 1 April 1991, clasps were awarded for eight years’ additional service). Recommendations for the award of medals and clasps are to be made by cadet units in accordance with the Cadet Forces Medal Regulations published in JSP 814, Policy and Regulations for MOD Sponsored Cadet Forces. The Elizabeth Cross: Died on Operations Recognition Award Elizabeth Cross The Elizabeth Cross and miniature The Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll are granted to the next of kin of regular, reserve or Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel who have died on operations, or as a result of an act of terrorism since 1 January 1948: whilst serving on an operation in which personnel received a Campaign Medal, GSM or OSM whilst serving on an operation in which personnel received a UN, NATO (or other international body) or another nations’ campaign medal in the absence of a UK medal as a result of an act of terrorism where the available evidence suggests they were targeted because of their membership of the UK armed forces on a non medal earning operational task where death has been caused by the inherent high risk of the task a subsequent and premature death as a result of an injury or illness attributed to the circumstances outlined above Recipients and how to apply You can apply for both the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll. For retrospective claims and when the next of kin is deceased, their legal successor may apply. An additional Memorial Scroll only is available to the following (or their legal successors) where they are not the next of kin: the parents of the deceased the spouse or partner of the deceased, or someone who had a substantive relationship with the deceased (a substantive relationship is generally based on joint financial commitment and will have to be proved by the applicant) If you think you might be eligible, contact the MOD Medal Office. Order of wear There are strict rules surrounding the wearing of medals and decorations. The latest full list of the British Orders of Knighthood, decorations, medals and the order of wear can be found in the 2019 publication of The London Gazette You can contact the Medals Office if you have a query about the order of wear. Wearing of Medals You should only wear official decorations, medals or emblems that you are entitled to and have been approved for acceptance and wear. Unofficial medals should not be worn with official orders, decorations and medals. If you are the next of kin of a deceased service person, it is common practice to wear your relative’s decorations and medals as a mark of remembrance. It is custom to wear medals on the right breast in civilian dress only, official approval is not required to wear relative’s medals. Current serving personnel should not Wear Relative’s Medals or Unofficial Medals whilst wearing uniform. Ensure that your replica and miniature medals are bought from an officially licensed replica medal manufacturer. The merchandise licensing programme generates much needed revenue for our Armed Forces welfare funds that supports Serving and Ex-Serving members of the Armed Forces and their families. If you suspect any replica and miniature medals are unlicensed please report to DIPR-Enforcement@mod.gov.uk Unofficial Medals The MOD Medal Office does not issue Unofficial Medals (such as the National Defence Medal, Veterans Star, British Army of the Rhine Medal, etc.). Unofficial Medals, sometimes referred to as ‘commemorative’ medals, are usually designed and manufactured by private medal companies to commemorate some form of service with the Armed Forces, usually where no official MOD recognition has been previously given. These medals have not been approved by Her Majesty The Queen, nor granted permission to wear, and cannot be mounted with official orders, decorations and medals. A recent practice of wearing unofficial medals mounted on a separate medal bar has been noted, however, this also carries no form of official endorsement. Contact the Kang Jin Medal Factory You can contact the Medal Factory in writing or via email. Dekay Group Limited (Dongguan Kangjin Apparel Limited) Tel: 86-769-33290361 Skype: dekayemb Mail: sales@dekayemb.com / dekayemb@aol.com Website: www.dekayemb.com / www.emblemsfactory.com [View Details] -
Guidance: What are the types of Medals -page 1
Guidance: What are the types of Medals Medals: campaigns, descriptions and eligibility Details of the medals awarded to serving members of the armed forces, veterans and MOD employees; and who can receive them. The Ministry of Defence Medal Office issues medals to currently serving members of the armed forces, veterans and MOD employees. If you are a member of other services, such as the fire, police or prison service, you should contact your organisation’s Human Resources department in the first instance. You can apply for a medal if you meet the criteria. The information in this guide is intended to give a brief overview only. Announcements COVID-19 update Although COVID-19 has impacted operations, the MOD Medal Office is accepting applications. Due to security and Data Protection reasons, the MOD Medal Office are only able to accept hard copy application forms and documentation. Please send your completed and signed application form, along with photocopies of any supporting documentation, to the address on the application form. Coronation Medal 1953 The MOD Medal Office is unable to accept and assess applications for Her Majesty The Queen’s Coronation Medal 1953. (Dec 2018) Clarification of the qualification criteria for the Accumulated Campaign Service Medal (ACSM) 1994 and 2011 A formal review of the Accumulated Campaign Service Medal policy and qualification criteria has been conducted to resolve ambiguity over how time on operations is counted towards the ACSM. More detailed information about the review, guidance on eligibility and how to apply can be found on The Accumulated Campaign Service Medal (ACSM) 1994 and 2011 Policy Review 2020. Decorations, Gallantry and Distinguished Conduct Medals You can’t apply for these awards. You must be recommended to qualify. You can read recommendations for honours and awards at The National Archives. The awards below are listed in the official ‘order of precedence’, The letters in brackets are put after a person’s surname to show their award. Victoria Cross (VC) The Victoria Cross The Victoria Cross is the premier Operational Gallantry award given for ‘most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy’. It may be awarded to all ranks of the services and civilians and can be awarded posthumously. Individuals who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the VC would be issued with a bar. The MOD Medal Office does not issue this award. George Cross (GC) The George Cross The George Cross is the premier award given for non-operational gallantry or gallantry not in the presence of an enemy. This is awarded for acts of the greatest heroism or of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme danger. The George Cross is equal in stature in the UK honours system to the Victoria Cross, the highest military gallantry award. This has always been the case since the introduction of the award in 1940. It may be awarded to all ranks of the services and civilians and can be awarded posthumously. The MOD Medal Office does not issue this award. Replacement awards are available from the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood. Orders of the Bath and the British Empire Read information about the Order of the Bath and the Order of the British Empire. Distinguished Service Order (DSO) The Distinguished Service Order is an operational gallantry award given for highly successful command and leadership during active operations. Personnel who perform a further act of such leadership which would have merited a second award of the DSO would be issued with a gold bar. It may be awarded to all ranks of the services. This award is not available posthumously. The MOD Medal Office does not issue this award. Replacement awards are available from the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood. Conspicuous Gallantry Cross (CGC) The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of an act (or acts) of conspicuous gallantry during active operations against the enemy. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the CGC would be issued with a silver bar. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Conspicuous Gallantry Cross if you meet the criteria. Royal Red Cross (Class I) (RRC) The Royal Red Cross is a Meritorious award given ‘for exceptional devotion and competency in the performance of actual nursing duties…. over a continuous and long period’. Holders of the first class decoration are known as Members (RRC). These awards are only available to the nursing services and are not available posthumously. You can replace a Royal Red Cross (Class I) if you meet the criteria. Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) The Distinguished Service Cross The Distinguished Service Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy at sea. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the DSC are issued with a silver bar, with rounded ends, ornamented by a crown. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Distinguished Service Cross if you meet the criteria. Military Cross (MC) The Military Cross The Military Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy on land. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second MC will be issued with a silver bar ornamented by the crown. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Military Cross if you meet the criteria. Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) The Distinguished Flying Cross The Distinguished Flying Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy in the air. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the DFC would be issued with a silver bar ornamented by an eagle. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Distinguished Flying Cross if you meet the criteria. Air Force Cross (AFC) The Air Force Cross The Air Force Cross is a non-operational award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry while flying not in the presence of the enemy. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited the award of a second AFC are issued with a silver bar. This award is available posthumously. You can replace an Air Force Cross if you meet the criteria. Royal Red Cross (Class II) (ARRC) The Royal Red Cross (Class 2) front and back The Royal Red Cross (Class II) is a Meritorious award given for special devotion and competency in the performance of actual nursing duties…. over a continuous and long period’. Holders of the second class decoration are known as Associates (ARRC). Holders of a Royal Red Cross (Class II) (ARRC) who merit a second award are promoted to a Royal Red Cross (Class I) (RRC). These awards are only available to the nursing services and are not available posthumously. You can replace a Royal Red Cross (Class II) if you meet the criteria. George Medal (GM) The George Medal front and back The George Medal is awarded for conspicuous gallantry not in the presence of the enemy. A silver bar may be issued to George Medal holders who perform a further act of such bravery which would have merited award of a second GM. This award is available posthumously. The MOD Medal Office does not issue this award. Replacement awards are available from the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood. Queen’s Gallantry Medal (QGM) The Queen's Gallantry Medal front and back The Queen’s Gallantry Medal is awarded to civilians for acts of exemplary bravery at a level below that of the George Medal. The QGM is also awarded to military personnel for acts which military honours would not normally be granted such as acts of exemplary bravery not in the presence of the enemy. A silver bar may be issued to QGM holders who perform a further act of such bravery which would have merited award of the QGM. This award is available posthumously. The MOD Medal Office does not issue this award. Replacement awards are available from the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood. Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal (QVRM) The Queen's Volunteer Reserves Medal front and back The Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal is a meritorious award given for members of any rank of the Volunteer Reserve Forces, for devotion to duty and exemplary service over a period usually of at least 10 years that has been of particular value and an outstanding example to others. This award is not available posthumously. You can replace a Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal if you meet the criteria. Mention in Despatches The Mentioned in Dispatches award A Mention in Despatches is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks for an act (or acts) of bravery during active operations. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Mention in Despatches if you meet the criteria. Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service The Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service Award A Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service is awarded for meritorious service in an operational theatre. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service if you meet the criteria. Queen’s Commendation for Bravery The Queen's Commendation for Bravery award The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery is awarded for an act (or acts) of bravery not in the presence of the enemy. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Queen’s Commendation for Bravery if you meet the criteria. Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air The Queen's Commendation for Bravery in the Air award The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air is awarded for an act (or acts) of bravery while flying not in the presence of the enemy. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air if you meet the criteria. World War 1 medals All World War 1 medals were issued to the recipient or next of kin after the war ended. You can only apply if the medal was returned, and you can provide a medal card or roll which includes this information. The MOD Medal Office does not provide replacement World War 1 medals. You can buy replicas or original named medals from a medal dealer. 1914 Star The 1914 Star was awarded to personnel who served in France and Belgium between 5 August and 22 November 1914. 1914-15 Star The 1914-15 Star was awarded to personnel who saw service in any theatre of war between 5 August 1914 and 31 December 1915, other than those who had already qualified for the 1914 Star. British War Medal 1914-20 The British War Medal was awarded to personnel in recognition of the successful conclusion of World War 1. It was later extended until 1920 to cover mine-clearing services and operations in North and South Russia, the eastern Baltic, Siberia, the Black Sea and Caspian. Victory Medal 1914-19 The Victory Medal was awarded to all personnel who received the 1914 or the 1914-15 Stars. It is often referred to as the Allied War Medal. World War 2 Medals You can apply for a World War 2 medal if you meet the criteria. Nine stars were issued for the campaigns of World War 2. The colours of the ribbons have symbolic significance and are believed to have been designed personally by King George VI. No more than 5 stars may be awarded to one person. The retrospective introduction of the Arctic Star in 2013, following the Sir John Holmes Independent Medal Review, meant that a sixth start could be worn. In all cases it is only the Arctic Star that is the sixth star that can be worn. Those who qualify for more are awarded a clasp with the title of one of the stars to which they qualify. The clasp is then attached to the ribbon of one of the other stars. If you qualify for 2 or 3 of the Atlantic, Air Crew Europe and France and Germany stars, the first star earned is awarded. You will then receive a clasp with the title of the second star earned to be worn on the ribbon of the first. A third star or clasp will not be awarded in this case. 1939 to 1945 Star The 1939 to 1945 Star is awarded to personnel who completed operational service overseas between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 (2 Sept 1945 in Far East). To apply for the 1939 to 1945 Star, you must have: 180 days operational service in the army in the above qualifying areas 180 days operational service as ground crew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 60 days operational service as aircrew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 180 days service afloat in operational areas in the Royal Navy in the above qualifying areas The colours of the ribbon represent the 3 services. The star is worn with the dark blue stripe furthest from the left shoulder. Recipients of the 1939-45 Star may also be eligible for: Battle of Britain Clasp Bomber Command Clasp Clasps are worn on the ribbon of the 1939 to 1945 Star. To apply for the Battle of Britain Clasp to the 1939-45 Star, you must have: served as aircrew on a fighter aircraft been engaged in the Battle of Britain between 10 July 1940 and 31 October 1940 To apply for the Bomber Command Clasp to the 1939-45 Star, you must have: served as aircrew with a UK based Bomber Command Unit served between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 Atlantic Star The Atlantic Star The Atlantic Star is awarded for operational service in the Atlantic and home waters between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 (2 September 1945 in Far East). To apply for the Atlantic Star, you must have already qualified for the 1939 to 1945 Star and have an additional: 180 days operational service or any 6 months afloat in the army in the above qualifying areas 180 days operational service afloat as ground crew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 60 days operational service as aircrew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 180 days afloat in operational areas in the Royal Navy in the above qualifying areas The colours of ribbon represent the Atlantic Ocean. The Atlantic Star is worn with the blue edge furthest from the left shoulder. Air Crew Europe Star The Air Crew Europe Star is earned almost exclusively by RAF personnel for operational flying from UK bases over Europe between 3 September 1939 and 5 June 1944. To apply for the Air Crew Europe Star, you must have already qualified for the 1939 to 1945 Star and have an additional: 60 days operational flying in the army in the above qualifying areas 60 days operational flying for the RAF in the above qualifying areas 60 days operational flying for the Royal Navy in the above qualifying areas The ribbon colours of the ribbon represent the sky, night flying and enemy searchlights to symbolise the continuous service of the Air Force by night and day. Arctic Star The Arctic Star is awarded for operational service of any length north of the Arctic Circle (66, 32 N) between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945. The Arctic Star commemorates the Arctic Convoys that sailed to North Russia in support of the Russian allies. To apply for the Arctic Star, you must have: service of any length either afloat or as part of land operations north of the Arctic Circle in the army, Royal Navy, Merchant Navy, and RAF ground crew service of any length as RAF aircrew who landed or served in the air north of the Arctic Circle approved civilians who served in support of military operations north of the Arctic Circle Africa Star The Africa Star is awarded to personnel who served in North Africa, Malta or Egypt between 10 June 1940 and 12 May 1943. To apply for the Africa Star, you must have: 1 day of operational service in the army in the above qualifying areas 1 day of operational service as ground crew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 1 operational sortie as aircrew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 1 day afloat in the Mediterranean in the Royal Navy The colours of the ribbon symbolise the desert and the 3 services. Pacific Star: Malaya, Singapore and the Pacific Ocean Pacific Star The Pacific Star The Pacific Star is awarded for operational service in Malaya, Singapore, China, Hong Kong or Sumatra between 8 December 1941 and 2 September 1945. To apply for the Pacific Star, you must have: 1 day of operational service in the army in the above qualifying areas 1 day of operational service as ground crew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 1 operational sortie as aircrew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 1 day afloat on operational service in the above qualifying areas in the Royal Navy and already qualified for the 1939 to 1945 Star The colours of the ribbon represent the jungle, the beaches and the 3 services. If you also qualify for the Burma Star, you will only be awarded the first star you earned. You will then receive a clasp with the title of the second star earned, which is worn on the ribbon of the first. Burma Star The Burma Star The Burma Star is awarded for operational service in Burma between 11 December 1941 and 2 September 1945. Those serving in Bengal and Assam in India and China, Hong Kong, Malaya or Sumatra between other specified dates may also qualify. To apply for the Burma Star, you must have: 1 day of operational service in the army in the above qualifying areas 1 day of operational service as ground crew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 1 operational sortie as aircrew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 1 day afloat on operational service in the above qualifying areas in the Royal Navy and already qualified for the 1939 to 1945 Star The colours of the ribbon represent the sun, British and Commonwealth forces. If you also qualify for the Pacific Star, you will only be awarded the first star earned. You will then receive a clasp with the title of the second star earned which is worn on the ribbon of the first. Italy Star The Italy Star The Italy Star is awarded for operational service in Sicily or Italy between 11 July 1943 and 8 May 1945. Those who served in Yugoslavia, Greece, Corsica or Sardinia between certain other specified dates will also qualify. To apply for the Italy Star, you must have: 1 day of operational service in the army in the above qualifying areas 1 day of operational service as ground crew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 1 operational sortie as aircrew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 1 day afloat on operational service in the above qualifying areas in the Royal Navy and already qualified for the 1939 to 1945 Star The colours of the ribbon represent the national colours of Italy. France and Germany Star The France and Germany Star is awarded for operational service in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, The Netherlands or Germany between 6 June 1944 and 8 May 1945. To apply for the France and Germany Star, you must have: 1 day of operational service in the army in the above qualifying areas 1 day of operational service as ground crew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 1 operational sortie as aircrew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas 1 day afloat in operational areas of the North Sea in the Royal Navy (provided service was directly in support of land operations) The colours of the ribbon represent the national colours of the United Kingdom, France and The Netherlands. Defence Medal The Defence Medal front and back The Defence Medal is awarded for non-operational service such as those service personnel working in headquarters, on training bases and airfields and members of the Home Guard. The medal is also awarded for non-operational service overseas for example in India or South Africa. To apply for the Defence Medal, you must have either: 1080 days (3 years) service in the UK between 3 Sep 1939 and 8 May 1945 1080 days (3 years) service in the Home Guard between 14 May 1940 and 31 Dec 1944 (you will also need to fill out and send the Home Guard service questionnaire) 360 days (1 year) non operational service overseas between 3 Sep 1939 and 2 Sep 1945 180 days non operational service in an overseas area deemed to be closely threatened or subject to air attack between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 The colours of the ribbon symbolise enemy attacks on Britain’s ‘green and pleasant land’ and the black out. War Medal 1939 to 1945 War Medal 1939 to 1945 front and back The War Medal is awarded to all full time personnel of the armed forces wherever they were serving. The medal was granted in addition to campaign stars and the Defence Medal. To apply for the War Medal, you must have served at least 28 days between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945. The colours of the ribbon represent the Union Jack. Legion d’Honneur The Legion d’Honneur is issued by the French Government to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Normandy Landings. This medal is not issued by the MOD Medal Office. Find out how you can apply for the Legion d’Honneur. Post World War 2 campaign medals General Service Medal 1918-62 General Service Medal 1918 to 1962 General Service Medal 1918 to 1962 with Malaya clasp front and back The General Service Medal (GSM) 1918-1962 was awarded to army and RAF personnel who meet the qualifying criteria for service in any of the following geographical areas: South Persia Kurdistan Iraq North West Persia Southern Desert Iraq Northern Kurdistan Palestine South East Asia 1945 to 1946 Palestine 1945 to 1948 Malaya Cyprus Near East Arabian Peninsula Brunei Canal Zone The medal is also awarded for: Bomb and Mine Clearance 1945 to 1949 Bomb and Mine Clearance 1945 to 1956 Berlin Airlift If you think you might be eligible, contact the MOD Medal Office. If your application is successful, you’ll be awarded the GSM with a clasp for the relevant geographical area. If you become eligible for a further clasp, you will not get a second medal. The clasp should be added to the GSM medal ribbon, worn above the first clasp. Naval General Service Medal 1915 Naval General Service Medal 1915 - front and back The Naval General Service Medal (GSM) 1915 was awarded to Royal Navy and Royal Marine personnel who meet the qualifying criteria for service in any of the following geographical areas: Palestine 1936-1939 South East Asia 1945-46 Palestine 1945-48 Malaya Yangtze 1949 Canal Zone Cyprus Near East Arabian Peninsula Brunei The medal is also awarded for: Minesweeping 1945-51 Bomb and Mine Clearance 1945-49 Bomb and Mine Clearance 1945-53 Bomb and Mine Clearance Mediterranean Berlin Airlift If you think you might be eligible, contact the MOD Medal Office. If your application is successful, you’ll be awarded the Naval GSM with a clasp for the relevant geographical area. If you become eligible for a further clasp, you will not get a second medal. The clasp should be added to the Naval GSM medal ribbon, worn above the first clasp. Korea Medal The Korea Medal front and back The Korea Medal is awarded to personnel who participated in the Korean War between July 1950 and 27 July 1953. To apply for the Korea Medal, you must have either: 1 day of service on land in Korea in the army, RAF or Royal Navy 1 operational sortie over Korea or Korean Waters in the RAF 28 days service afloat on ships or crafts engaged in operations off the Korean coast in the Royal Navy General Service Medal 1962-2007 The General Service Medal 1962 to 2007 with Cyprus clasp front and back The General Service Medal (GSM) 1962-2007 is awarded to army, RAF, Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel who meet the qualifying criteria for service in any of the following geographical areas: Borneo Cyprus 1963-64 Radfan South Arabia Malay Peninsula Northern Ireland Dhofar Lebanon Gulf Kuwait North Iraq and South Turkey The medal is also awarded for: Mine Clearance: Gulf of Suez Air Operations Iraq If you think you might be eligible, contact the MOD Medal Office. If your application is successful, you’ll be awarded a GSM with a clasp for the relevant geographical area. If you become eligible for a further clasp, you will not get a second medal. The clasp should be added to the GSM ribbon, worn above the first clasp. Pingat Jasa Malaysia Medal The Pingat Jasa Malaysia (PJM) Medal is issued by the Malaysian Government to members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces for service of 90 days or more in Malaysia and Singapore. The qualifying dates are: Malaysia during the period 31 August 1957 and 12 August 1966 inclusive Singapore during the period 3 August 1957 and 9 August 1965 inclusive Applications for the PJM Medal are processed by the Malaysian Government. All applications must be endorsed an official organisation such as the Ministry of Defence or veterans associations before the medal can be issued. The MOD Medal Office can endorse an application for the PJM Medal. If you think you might be eligible, complete the Pingat Jasa Malaysia (PJM) medal application form (MS Word Document, 49.7 KB) and send to the MOD Medal Office for endorsement. The PJM Medal is not issued by the MOD Medal Office. South Atlantic Medal The South Atlantic medal front and back The South Atlantic Medal was awarded for service in the Falklands Islands, the dependencies, or in the South Atlantic between 2 April 1982 and 14 June 1982. To apply for the South Atlantic Medal and rosette , you must have either: 1 day of service in the Falkland Islands or their dependencies, or in the South Atlantic, south of 35 south and north of 60 south before 14 June 1982 1 operational sortie south of Ascension Island before 14 June 1982 To apply for the South Atlantic Medal without the rosette, you must have: 30 days service or more in the South Atlantic, south of 7 south and north of 60 south completed service no later than 21 October 1982 The colours of the ribbon symbolise the Atlantic Ocean. Gulf Medal 1990-1991 Gulf War Medal Gulf War Medal with 16 Jan to 28 February 1991 Clasp front and back The Gulf Medal was awarded to personnel for service in the areas of operations in the Middle East. To apply for the Gulf medal only, you must have: 30 days continuous service between 2 August 1990 and 7 March 1991 served in the area of operations as defined in the regulations To apply for the medal with clasp ’16 Jan to 28 Feb 1991’, you must have: 7 days continuous service between 16 Jan and 28 Feb 1991 served in the area of operations as defined in the regulations To apply for the medal with clasp ‘2 Aug 1990’, you must have: been a member of the Kuwait Liaison Team served in Kuwait on 2 August 1990 The colours of the ribbon represent the desert landscape and the 3 services. Kuwaiti Liberation Medal and the Saudi Liberation of Kuwait Medal The governments of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia issued these medals to the allied personnel who had taken part in the liberation of Kuwait. The Queen granted permission for British service personnel to accept but not wear these medals. Operational Service Medal - Iraq and Syria The Operational Service Medal (OSM) Iraq and Syria is awarded to personnel who completed operational service in or over the landmass of Iraq and Syria, or provided a significant and direct contribution outside of Iraq and Syria, to Operation SHADER since 9 August 2014 (end date to be decided). To apply for the Operational Service Medal - Iraq and Syria with clasp Iraq and Syria you must have either: 30 days continuous or 45 days cumulative operational service in the international boundaries of Iraq and Syria 10 operational sorties over Iraq and/or 6 operational sorties over Syria with the RAF To apply for the Operational Service Medal Iraq and Syria, without clasp Iraq and Syria you must have either: 50 hours on an Operation SHADER mission as an RPAS pilot, sensor or mission intelligence coordinator 45 days continuous or 60 days cumulative service with significant support or direct contribution to Op SHADER with specific units and specified locations, which include Al Udeid, Crete, Cyprus, Jordan, Kuwait and Turkey The Iraq and Syria clasp is to be worn on the ribbon of this medal, denoting the risk and rigour of the task. The colours of the ribbon represent the large number of airframes used in the operation, and the 3 services. Operational Service Medal – Sierra Leone Sierra Leone Medal Sierra Leone Medal The Operational Service Medal (OSM) Sierra Leone is awarded to personnel who completed operational service in Sierra Leone or the Joint Operational Area between 5 May 2000 to 31 July 2002. To apply for the Operational Service Medal - Sierra Leone, you must have either: 1 day of service on Op Barras or Op Maidenley 14 days continuous or accumulated service on Op Palliser 30 days continuous or accumulated service on Op Basillica or Silkman A silver rosette may be issued for service on Operations Maidenly and Barras. The rosette is worn on the ribbon of the OSM. The colours of the ribbon represent the jungle and the 3 services. Operational Service Medal – Afghanistan Afghanistan Medal The Afghanistan Medal with Clasp front and back The Operational Service Medal (OSM) Afghanistan is awarded to personnel who complete operational service on or in support of, operations in Afghanistan from 11 September 2001. You’ll automatically receive the medal if you’re currently serving and have deployed on a current operation, you don’t need to apply. If you have not received your medal and think you might be entitled, speak to your Unit HR. To apply for the Operational Service Medal - Afghanistan, you must have: served under the command of the UK Joint Task Force Commander 30 days continuous service or 45 days aggregated service served in either Zone 1 or Zone 2 (service in Zone 1 will be recognised with a clasp to the OSM) The colours of the ribbon represent the landscape of Afghanistan and the 3 services. Operational Service Medal – Democratic Republic of Congo The Democratic Republic of the Congo Medal The Democratic Republic of the Congo Medal The Operational Service Medal (OSM) Democratic Republic of Congo (DROC) is awarded to personnel who completed operational service in Bunia in the Ituri Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo between 14 June and 10 September 2003. To apply for the Operational Service Medal - DROC, you must have either: 25 days operational service 5 operational sorties with the RAF The Operational Service Medal will be issued with a DROC clasp which should be worn on the ribbon. The colours of the ribbon represent the landscape of DROC and the 3 services. Iraq Medal The Iraq Medal with 19 Mar to 28 Apr 2003 Clasp front and back The Iraq medal is awarded to personnel who completed operational service in Iraq between 20 January 2003 and 22 May 2011. To be considered for the medal with clasp ’19 Mar – 28 Apr 03’, you must have: served in Zone One between 19 March 03 and 28 April 03 completed 7 days continuous service, or served as aircrew flying into Zone One and completed 2 or more operational sorties (no more than 1 sortie per day) To be considered for the medal only, you must have: completed 30 days continuous service in either Zone One or Zone Two, or served as aircrew flying into Zones One or Two, or served as aircrew based outside of Iraq and completed 10 operational sorties (no more than 1 sortie per day) The clasp is to be worn on the ribbon of the medal. The colours of the ribbon represent the Iraq landscape. Criteria for this medal is complex and the above is a guide only. If you think you might be eligible, contact the MOD Medal Offi [View Details] -
Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation medals were awarded at the Kremlin
Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation medals were awarded at the Kremlin Vladimir Putin awarded Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation Gold Medals to Russians who have distinguished themselves though their state and public service and have made major contributions to the nation’s socioeconomic development, including in developing production, science, culture, education and sport. May 1, 2015 13:40 The Kremlin, Moscow With participants of the presentation ceremony of the Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation Medal. The Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation title was established by the Presidential Executive Order of March 29, 2013 * * * Speech at the presentation ceremony of the Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation Medal President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends, Following tradition, today, on May 1, we are awarding the Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation Gold Medals to outstanding fellow citizens who are dedicated to serving their country, contribute to its development and prosperity, and strengthen its independence and sovereignty. Our country’s history is rich in great achievements and victories. The real force behind these feats is our people, who know how to fight and also how to work. This ceremony is taking place ahead of the 70th anniversary of Victory [in the 1941–1945 Great Patriotic War]. During the war years, everyone held their ground and fought on their line. Our soldiers fought to the death around Moscow and in Stalingrad, and took Berlin. Millions of workers gave their all to the front, in factory workshops, down mines and in the fields. This shared Victory was won at the cost of toil, sweat and blood. Our forebears’ selfless labour rebuilt the country. The victors in the Great Patriotic War built a great power. Today, Russia is proving once again that it can rise to any challenge and resolve even the most difficult tasks. As at every time in our history, our progress is guaranteed by those who are ready to take on the responsibility and who understand that their personal efforts and the results of their labour are decisive for the prosperity of their company, economic sector, town or village, and decisive too for our country’s influence and competitiveness and for its creative and constructive energy. The more engaged and hard-working people we have, the stronger and more prosperous Russia will be. Friends, I am sure that no matter where we were born and live, and no matter what our jobs, whether we work on the factory floor, grow grain, or educate young people, we can all achieve outstanding results. The main thing is to work hard, love one’s job, set lofty goals and work towards them, and never forget that our own lives are inseparable from the country’s life, and that Russia needs the labour, talent and success of each and every one of us. Milkmaid Marem Bogatyreva from Ingushetia shows us through her personal example that our farmers can provide our country with quality products. She has exceeded all of the production targets set for her work. Over several years now, our national rhythmic gymnastics team has been the undisputed world champion in this sport. This success is in large part the result of the outstanding professionalism of the team’s trainer, Irina Viner-Usmanova. She knows that the main components of victory are discipline, character, dedication and strength of will. 1 of 11 Speech at the presentation ceremony of the Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation Medal. If we want to preserve our historical and cultural identity, we must pass on to our young people the full wealth of our country’s language and literature. A great deal in this work depends on teachers’ talents and their ability to awaken in children a love of books, and cultivate the desire to read and to express themselves correctly in their native language. Galina Gromova, from Kaliningrad Region, our country’s westernmost region, is just this kind of true professional and has a teaching career spanning 45 years. Russia’s Metals sector companies hold solid positions on the domestic and export markets and produce quality steel for strategically important sectors of our economy, from construction to machine-building. Many thousands of people make their contribution to the metals sector’s results. One of these people is Yury Savin. He is a leader in production results and is also the author of innovative inventions. Mr Savin’s three sons have followed in their father’s footsteps and work together with him at the same company. Our engineers and designers have always been a great source of national pride. They created the weapons with which we won the Great Patriotic War, ensured nuclear parity and our country’s security during the Cold War, and developed the unique technology that enabled us to conquer outer space. Today, they are working to guarantee a reliable nuclear and missile shield for our country. Much of the credit here goes to Yury Solomonov. He and his team have developed unique new weapons for Russia’s strategic nuclear forces. Friends, let me congratulate you once again on these well-earned titles of Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation. I wish you good health, new success and great achievements for the glory of Russia and its people. We are proud of you. Let us now begin the award presentation ceremony. <…> Friends, this May 1 holiday is a wonderful, beautiful day. We speak of it as the holiday celebrating spring and labour. What can be more wonderful than labour, especially if it is a job you love? On your behalf, let me congratulate not just all the people here today, not just the recipients of the Medals, but all people engaged in labour, all who make their contribution to our country’s development and strength, all who set an example for those around them of how to work, and who achieve real results. Of course, I also want to express my words of thanks to today’s recipients of this high title – the Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation. Thank you for your work, your talent and your effort. Thank you for everything you have done for our country. Happy holiday! [View Details] -
Medal "For Valiant Labour in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945"
Medal "For Valiant Labour in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945" The Medal "For Valiant Labour in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945" (Russian: медаль «Ð—а доблеÑтный труд в Великой ОтечеÑтвенной войне 1941–1945 гг.») was a World War II civilian labour award of the Soviet Union established on June 6, 1945 by decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR to recognise the valiant and selfless labour of Soviet citizens in the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War. Its statute was later amended by decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR on July 18, 1980. Medal Statute The Medal "For Valiant Labour in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945" was awarded for wartime labour of one year or six months in the case of disabled veterans, to: workers, technical personnel and employees of industry and transport; farmers and agricultural specialists; workers in science, technology, the arts and literature; employees of the Soviet, party, trade union and other civic organizations. Presentation of the award of the Medal "For Valiant Labour in the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945" was made by the executive committees of city and district Soviets on the basis of documents issued by the heads of enterprises, institutions, party, government, trade unions and other civic organizations. Lists submitted for the award of the medal were reviewed and approved: for workers of industrial enterprises, transport, and farms – the relevant People's Commissars of the Union and the Republican People's Commissars; for workers of collective farms, cooperatives and of the workers' party, Soviet, trade union and other public organizations – the Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviets of the Union (not divided into regions), and autonomous republics, the chairmen of executive committees of regional and territorial Soviets; for workers of science, technology, the arts and literature – the chairmen of the committees under the SNK and the heads of the departments under the CPC union and autonomous republics, and the chairman of the Presidium of the Union of Soviet Writers. Award of the Medal "For Valiant Labour in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945" was made on behalf of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet by executive committees of regional, district and city Soviets in the area of residence of the recipient. The Medal "For Valiant Labour in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945" was worn on the left side of the chest and when in the presence of other Orders and medals of the USSR, was located immediately after the Medal "For the Liberation of Prague". If worn in the presence of awards of the Russian Federation, the latter have precedence. Each Medal came with an attestation of award, this attestation came in the form of a small 8 cm by 11 cm cardboard booklet bearing the award's name, the recipient's particulars and an official stamp and signature on the inside. Medal Description The Medal "For Valiant Labour in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945" was a 32mm in diameter circular copper medal with a raised rim on both sides. On the obverse, the left profile bust of Joseph Stalin wearing the uniform of a Marshal of the Soviet Union, along the upper circumference of the medal, the relief inscription "OUR CAUSE IS JUST" (Russian: ÐÐШЕ ДЕЛО ПРÐВОЕ), along the lower circumference of the medal, the relief inscription "WE HAVE WON" (Russian: МЫ ПОБЕДИЛИ). On the reverse along the upper circumference of the medal, the relief inscription "FOR VALIANT LABOUR" (Russian: «Ð—РДОБЛЕСТÐЫЙ ТРУД»), in the center, under a relief hammer and sickle, the inscription on four lines "THE GREAT PATRIOTIC WAR 1941–1945" (Russian: «Ð’ ВЕЛИКОЙ ОТЕЧЕСТВЕÐÐОЙ ВОЙÐЕ 1941–1945 ГГ.»), at the bottom, a small relief five pointed star. The Medal "For Valiant Labour in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945" was secured by a ring through the medal suspension loop to a standard Soviet pentagonal mount covered by a 24mm wide red silk moiré ribbon with 2mm wide yellow edge stripes and a 7mm wide green central stripe. [View Details] -
Ostmedaille (East Medal) or Russian Front Medal
Ostmedaille (East Medal) or Russian Front Medal Commonly Known as "Ostmedaille" (East Medal) or "Russian Front Medal" this award was introduced on the 26th of May 1942 to recognize those who participated in the first winter of Operation Barbarossa (the invasion of the Soviet Union). The mammoth endeavor to attain "living space in the east" for Germany employed over 3 million men separated into 3 Army groups; North (Leeb), Center (Bock), and South (Rundstedt). On June 22nd the German forces crossed the border achieving almost complete surprise and with a powerful punch broke into the heart of the Soviet Union. Despite its initial success, however, this Blitzkrieg would not deliver a quick victory and as summer months passed the fighting only intensified. The end of autumn brought a bitterly cold Russian winter which caught the invasion force unprepared and turned the elements into an enemy as dangerous as the Soviets. Created by SS Unterschrfuhrer Ernst Krauit, the Eastern Medal was to commemorate those who endured these freezing and challenging months. The award is far from rare in the collector's world owing to the fact that 3 million were issued and countless more manufactured. This large scale production yielded a number of variations which are interesting to study. Manufacturing and Technical Information The Medal features a concave obverse with a helmet and stick grenade immediately below the ribbon loop. Its main obverse feature was a German Eagle holding a swastika, with a branch of leaves behind the swastika. Its convex reverse had the inscription "WINTERSCHLACHT IM OSTEN 1941/42" (Winter Battle in the East) in capital letters with a sword and wreath of leaves crossed under it. The Medal measures 44mm (including the ribbon loop) by 36mm. A plethora of different firms manufactured the Award from Different Metals, making it challenging to categorize the variation. For discussion purposes here they will be broken downs into two categories by the Metal used in Manufacturing; Type 1; Buntmetal Type 2; Zinc What we call here type 1 Badges were Made from Buntmetal (hard metal) and have stood the test of time better than their zinc counterparts. Surviving examples have generally preserved all the detail and usually preserved most of the finish as well. In fact, they are often found with their finish practically intact making for a visually powerful award. As with any antique, the condition of it also depends on outside factors (storage), and although in some cases the finish has faded off, it is always possible to see a trace of it. What we categorized as type 2 Medals were Manufactured from Zinc and very often show visible aging signs. Although this type of Medal may be occasionally found with a good amount of the finish and detail intact, they are more commonly found with either the "bubbling" that occurs in Zinc Badges over time or with the finish completely evaporated. In the first case, the zinc has literally bubbled underneath the finish and looks almost like the medal was sprayed with water. In the second case, the finish on the badge has evaporated so long ago and so thoroughly that it gives the impression that it was never there. The Medal was suspended by a dark red ribbon with a thin white-black-white stripe. Its foundation decree stated that the red signified the blood shed in the struggle, the white represented the snow, and the black honored the memory of those fallen during the campaign. Award Criteria The award was presented to those who met the following criteria during November 15, 1941 and April 26, 1942. Fourteen days of combat participation, 30 combat sorties for Luftwaffe pilots. Sixty days of service in the combat zone (even if not engaged in actual combat). Having received wounds, or frostbite severe enough to warrant a Wound Badge. In case of death the medal was awarded posthumously and was presented to the next of kin. It was also awarded to German Allies, notably the Italian and Rumanian forces, as well as those volunteers from the invaded Eastern territories who joined the German cause. For a typical soldier who fought in the Eastern front visit the Eugen Rothenhofer page in the Recipients section of this site. Presentation and Wear The Medal was presented in a paper envelope which featured the name of the award on the front, with the reverse usually bearing the name of the manufacturer. To my knowledge, this award was never presented in a box or any other device. Its institution order called for the Medal to be worn as part of a group only for official purposes. Active duty personnel would wear only the ribbon from the second button hole in the tunic. This place was normally reserved for the Iron Cross and/or War Merit Cross 2nd class and if any of these awards were also bestowed the recipient could wear both ribbons or place the Eastern Medal on a ribbon bar. Though widely distributed, the Eastern Front Medal was held in high regard and it can sometimes be seen outranking the War Merit Cross 2nd class. Documents The document style most often encountered is the typical A56+ official style. Since this award was not usually bestowed on the field, typewritten or unofficial documents are very rarely encountered. An entry was made in the appropriate section of the recipient Soldbuch and Wehrpass. By order of the OKW, all considerations for presentation stopped on September 4th, 1944. Reproductions Unfortunately for collectors neither the abundance of originals, nor their low price, managed to curb the reproduction of the Eastern award. In this case the relative low cost ensures that the reproductions are truly geared toward reenactors and not for collectors who, for only a few dollars more, could attain a period piece. This does not disqualify the occasional reproductions from seeping through to the collectors ranks, however, but fortunately a large majority of modern strikes lack the detail present in wartime strikes (although manufactured in the millions there is an evident sharpness to Original Medals). What one encounters more often than not is a period Medal with a reproduction ribbon. These have a more firm feel to them and unless intentionally softened to deceive a real collector would not be confused between a newly sewn ribbon and an original one. Also, an original ribbon should not fail the "Black Light Test". [View Details] -
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