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What shape is the Medal of Honour?

This medal is shaped like a round metal circle. It looks different from the higher awards, which are shaped like crosses. This simple circular design helps people easily tell it apart from the more advanced honors.

How quickly can a soldier earn it?

A soldier can receive this award after seven months of very good work. They must show they are reliable and follow all the rules well during that time. It was created as a way to reward someone who is just starting their military career with success.

Is it given for bravery in combat?

No, this award is not given for fighting in a battle or acts of extreme courage. Instead, it honors soldiers and civilian workers who do their everyday jobs with great care. It celebrates steady hard work and being a model member of the team.

The West German government started this award in 1980. It was created under the direction of Defence Minister Hans Apel to honor new recruits. Its purpose was to make sure that people felt proud of their early service to the country.

What colors are on its ribbon?

The ribbon features the official colors of the German flag. These colors are black, red, and gold. Using these colors reminds the soldiers of the nation they serve every single day.

What shape is the Medal of Honour?

This medal is shaped like a round metal circle. It looks different from the higher awards, which are shaped like crosses. This simple circular design helps people easily tell it apart from the more advanced honors.

How quickly can a soldier earn it?

A soldier can receive this award after seven months of very good work. They must show they are reliable and follow all the rules well during that time. It was created as a way to reward someone who is just starting their military career with success.

Is it given for bravery in combat?

No, this award is not given for fighting in a battle or acts of extreme courage. Instead, it honors soldiers and civilian workers who do their everyday jobs with great care. It celebrates steady hard work and being a model member of the team.

The West German government started this award in 1980. It was created under the direction of Defence Minister Hans Apel to honor new recruits. Its purpose was to make sure that people felt proud of their early service to the country.

What colors are on its ribbon?

The ribbon features the official colors of the German flag. These colors are black, red, and gold. Using these colors reminds the soldiers of the nation they serve every single day.

Home Library West GermanyBundeswehr Medal of Honour

Service medal

Bundeswehr Medal of Honour

The entry-level decoration of the Bundeswehr honors system given for seven months of faithful service.

West Germany Established 1980 All servicesPrecedence: Directly after the Cross of Honour in Bronze

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for seven months of exemplary and faithful service, or for notable early achievements.

Eligibility

Enlisted soldiers, non-commissioned officers, and civilian defense workers.

Branch

All services

Precedence

Directly after the Cross of Honour in Bronze

Bundeswehr Medal of Honour, Service medal, West Germany medal

History

In 1980, the West German government introduced the Medal of Honour as the first step in the Badge of Honour awards series. The goal was to reward conscientious service early in a recruit's military career.

Instead of a cross shape, this award was made as a circular medal to distinguish it from the higher grades. It honored soldiers who fulfilled their basic civic duty with outstanding effort.

It remains the starting point in the military honours system, recognizing both conscripted and voluntary personnel who show model discipline.