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What is this medal called in Danish?

In the Danish language, this honor is known as the Forsvarets Medalje for Faldne i Tjeneste. It was created on January 1, 2010, by the Danish Ministry of Defence. The name translates directly to the Defence Medal for Fallen in Service.

Who receives the physical medal?

The medal is given to the closest family members of the person who died. This is called a posthumous award because the person passed away before it could be given. It serves as a way for the country to show deep respect to the families who lost a loved one.

Can civilian workers receive it?

Yes, civilian personnel can receive this medal if they are working with the Danish military during a mission. If these workers are killed while on a dangerous task, they are eligible for the honor. It recognizes the sacrifice of all people serving the country abroad, not just soldiers.

What color is the medal's ribbon?

The ribbon for this medal is bright red. It has two thin white stripes that run down the sides near the edges. The red and white colors match the colors found on the Danish national flag.

Can it be awarded for deaths occurring in past conflicts?

The government made the award retroactive, which means it covers losses from the past. It honors people who died during missions like those in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Balkans. It ensures that families of those lost in those earlier wars receive the same level of national recognition.

What is this medal called in Danish?

In the Danish language, this honor is known as the Forsvarets Medalje for Faldne i Tjeneste. It was created on January 1, 2010, by the Danish Ministry of Defence. The name translates directly to the Defence Medal for Fallen in Service.

Who receives the physical medal?

The medal is given to the closest family members of the person who died. This is called a posthumous award because the person passed away before it could be given. It serves as a way for the country to show deep respect to the families who lost a loved one.

Can civilian workers receive it?

Yes, civilian personnel can receive this medal if they are working with the Danish military during a mission. If these workers are killed while on a dangerous task, they are eligible for the honor. It recognizes the sacrifice of all people serving the country abroad, not just soldiers.

What color is the medal's ribbon?

The ribbon for this medal is bright red. It has two thin white stripes that run down the sides near the edges. The red and white colors match the colors found on the Danish national flag.

Can it be awarded for deaths occurring in past conflicts?

The government made the award retroactive, which means it covers losses from the past. It honors people who died during missions like those in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Balkans. It ensures that families of those lost in those earlier wars receive the same level of national recognition.

Home Library DenmarkDefence Medal for Fallen in Service

Distinguished service decoration

Defence Medal for Fallen in Service

A solemn decoration presented to honor Danish service members killed while performing their military duties.

Denmark Established 2010 All servicesPrecedence: Ranked directly before the Defence Medal for Wounded in Service

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded posthumously to service members killed in action or who died as a direct result of wounds received on duty.

Eligibility

Danish military and civilian personnel who lose their lives while deployed on Danish Defence operations.

Branch

All services

Precedence

Ranked directly before the Defence Medal for Wounded in Service

Defence Medal for Fallen in Service, Distinguished service decoration, Denmark medal

History

The Defence Medal for Fallen in Service was created on January 1, 2010, by the Danish Ministry of Defence. Denmark had suffered tragic losses of service personnel deployed to dangerous missions in the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan during the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Before this medal was introduced, fallen troops were recognized mainly with standard commemorative items or service awards. The Danish government created this distinct medal to ensure the nation gave proper, dignified tribute to families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

This award is presented posthumously to the closest family members of the service member. It remains one of the most respected decorations in Denmark's military honors system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

War in AfghanistanIraq WarBaltic Sea Patrol Operations

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Jesper S. Hansen, including Danish Home Guard Medal of Merit, Distinguished Flying Medal, Navy Long Service Medal, Defence Medal for Wounded in Service, Defence Medal for Fallen in Service, shown against a light Denmark flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

Cold War

Danish Home Guard Medal of Merit Distinguished Flying Medal Navy Long Service Medal+2

Jesper S. Hansen

Who Was Jesper Hansen?

A dedicated officer who served across multiple branches of the Danish Defence.

Denmark1995-05-04

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Sources

Back to Denmark