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Did the Navy and Air Force have their own versions?

Yes, they did. Because the different parts of the military served in unique ways, separate medals were made for them. Polish pilots received the Air Force Medal, and sailors received the Navy Medal. This ensured that every brave person was recognized for their specific role during the war.

What is shown on the back of the medal?

The back of the medal features a sword cutting through an oak branch. This design is a powerful symbol of victory after a long, hard struggle. It reminds people of the strength and courage shown by Polish soldiers who fought for their country's freedom.

How much service time was needed to earn it?

To get this award, a soldier usually had to serve for at least six months in active combat units. If they were not in the middle of a battle, they needed to complete twelve months of regular military duty. These rules made sure the medal went to people who served for a long time.

Could someone earn it more than once?

Yes, a soldier could receive extra recognition for serving even longer. If they stayed in the military for more time, small metal bars were added to the ribbon on their medal. Each bar acted as a badge showing that they continued to serve during the difficult war years.

Who created this medal?

This medal was created on July 3, 1945, by the Polish Government in Exile. This was a group of Polish leaders working from London because they could not return home safely. They wanted to make sure the sacrifice of their soldiers was honored even though the war had just ended.

Did the Navy and Air Force have their own versions?

Yes, they did. Because the different parts of the military served in unique ways, separate medals were made for them. Polish pilots received the Air Force Medal, and sailors received the Navy Medal. This ensured that every brave person was recognized for their specific role during the war.

What is shown on the back of the medal?

The back of the medal features a sword cutting through an oak branch. This design is a powerful symbol of victory after a long, hard struggle. It reminds people of the strength and courage shown by Polish soldiers who fought for their country's freedom.

How much service time was needed to earn it?

To get this award, a soldier usually had to serve for at least six months in active combat units. If they were not in the middle of a battle, they needed to complete twelve months of regular military duty. These rules made sure the medal went to people who served for a long time.

Could someone earn it more than once?

Yes, a soldier could receive extra recognition for serving even longer. If they stayed in the military for more time, small metal bars were added to the ribbon on their medal. Each bar acted as a badge showing that they continued to serve during the difficult war years.

Who created this medal?

This medal was created on July 3, 1945, by the Polish Government in Exile. This was a group of Polish leaders working from London because they could not return home safely. They wanted to make sure the sacrifice of their soldiers was honored even though the war had just ended.

Home Library PolandArmy Medal for War 1939-1945

Campaign medal

Army Medal for War 1939-1945

A service medal honoring Polish ground soldiers who fought against Nazi Germany throughout World War II.

Poland Established 1945 ArmyPrecedence: Worn with official World War II commemorative service medals.

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for active combat service or extended military duty in the Polish Army during World War II.

Eligibility

Soldiers of the Polish Land Forces in the West and the Polish Home Army resistance.

Branch

Army

Precedence

Worn with official World War II commemorative service medals.

Army Medal for War 1939-1945, Campaign medal, Poland medal

History

The Army Medal for War 1939-1945 was established on July 3, 1945, by the Polish Government in Exile in London. After World War II ended, thousands of Polish ground troops could not return home safely due to Soviet control. The exiled leaders wanted to make sure their sacrifice was never forgotten.

Soldiers earned this medal by serving faithfully in combat units abroad, such as in the Italian campaign or the Normandy breakout. Polish resistance fighters in the underground Home Army were also granted eligibility.

While the communist government in Poland refused to recognize exile medals for decades, democratic Poland restored their full official status in 1990. It is cherished today by veterans' families worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

World War II

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Stanislaw Sosabowski, including Cross of Merit with Swords, Army Medal for War 1939-1945, Cross of Merit for Bravery, Order of Virtuti Militari, shown against a light Poland flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

WWII

Cross of Merit with Swords Army Medal for War 1939-1945 Cross of Merit for Bravery+1

Stanislaw Sosabowski

Who Was Stanislaw Sosabowski?

The Polish general who led the 1st Independent Parachute Brigade in the Netherlands.

Poland1944-09-17

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Sources

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