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What was the Supreme Revolutionary Council?

The Supreme Revolutionary Council was a group of military leaders who took control of Somalia in October 1969. They seized power after a sudden political change within the country. This group acted as the new government and worked to completely reorganize the nation's army and security forces. Their rule marked the start of a major new era in Somali history.

Why was this medal created?

This medal was created to honor the start of this new military government. It served as a special award to thank the soldiers and security staff who supported the takeover in 1969. By giving out this medal, the leaders wanted to mark a big change for their country. It recognized the specific group of people who were present when the council first formed.

Was this awarded for fighting a foreign war?

No, this medal was not given for fighting in a war against another country. Instead, it was meant to mark a major event that happened inside the borders of Somalia. It celebrated the success of the 1969 coup d'état where the military moved into power. The award was focused entirely on this local political shift led by the armed forces.

Can new soldiers receive this medal today?

New soldiers cannot earn this medal because it was only meant for a specific time in history. It was created to honor people who were on active duty exactly during the events of 1969. Since that time has long passed, no one else can qualify for it anymore. It remains a historical object that reminds people of that specific moment in time.

Did this medal affect military rank?

The medal did not change a person's military rank or give them a new title. Even so, it was a very important symbol for the officers and soldiers who wore it. It showed everyone that a soldier was a veteran who supported the council from the very beginning. Many leaders continued to wear it during the 1970s and 1980s to show their close connection to the group that ran the country.

What was the Supreme Revolutionary Council?

The Supreme Revolutionary Council was a group of military leaders who took control of Somalia in October 1969. They seized power after a sudden political change within the country. This group acted as the new government and worked to completely reorganize the nation's army and security forces. Their rule marked the start of a major new era in Somali history.

Why was this medal created?

This medal was created to honor the start of this new military government. It served as a special award to thank the soldiers and security staff who supported the takeover in 1969. By giving out this medal, the leaders wanted to mark a big change for their country. It recognized the specific group of people who were present when the council first formed.

Was this awarded for fighting a foreign war?

No, this medal was not given for fighting in a war against another country. Instead, it was meant to mark a major event that happened inside the borders of Somalia. It celebrated the success of the 1969 coup d'état where the military moved into power. The award was focused entirely on this local political shift led by the armed forces.

Can new soldiers receive this medal today?

New soldiers cannot earn this medal because it was only meant for a specific time in history. It was created to honor people who were on active duty exactly during the events of 1969. Since that time has long passed, no one else can qualify for it anymore. It remains a historical object that reminds people of that specific moment in time.

Did this medal affect military rank?

The medal did not change a person's military rank or give them a new title. Even so, it was a very important symbol for the officers and soldiers who wore it. It showed everyone that a soldier was a veteran who supported the council from the very beginning. Many leaders continued to wear it during the 1970s and 1980s to show their close connection to the group that ran the country.

Home Library SomaliaFoundation of the Supreme Revolutionary Council Medal

Service medal

Foundation of the Supreme Revolutionary Council Medal

A commemorative military medal marking the 1969 political transition and establishment of the military council.

Somalia Established 1969 All servicesPrecedence: Commemorative and service group

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for service in the armed forces during the establishment of the Supreme Revolutionary Council.

Eligibility

Military and security personnel on active duty during the 1969 events.

Branch

All services

Precedence

Commemorative and service group

Foundation of the Supreme Revolutionary Council Medal, Service medal, Somalia medal

History

The Foundation of the Supreme Revolutionary Council Medal was created following the events of October 1969, when the military took control of the government. The Supreme Revolutionary Council governed the country and reorganized the armed forces.

This medal was awarded to the military officers, soldiers, and security personnel who supported the council and established the new administration. It was widely distributed to mark the beginning of a major era in modern Somali history.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the medal was worn by many senior military figures to show their connection to the revolutionary council that expanded the military.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

1969 Somali Coup d'État

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Mohamed Siad Barre, including Medal for Military Service, National Liberation Medal, Defence Superior Service Medal, Foundation of the Supreme Revolutionary Council Medal, Gold Medal for Bravery and Service, Somali National Army Order of Honor, Medal for the War with Ethiopia, Medal for the Ogaden War, Medal for Military Valour, Order of the Somali Star, shown against a light Somalia flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

Cold War

Medal for Military Service National Liberation Medal Defence Superior Service Medal+7

Mohamed Siad Barre

Who Was Major General Mohamed Siad Barre?

Leader of Somalia during the Cold War and the Ogaden conflict.

Somalia1977-1978

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Sources

Back to Somalia