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How long were Cuban troops in Angola?

Cuban soldiers first arrived in Angola in 1975 to help during a civil war. They stayed for sixteen years to support the government against outside groups. By 1991, the mission finally came to an end as the troops returned home to Cuba.

What did the medal celebrate?

The medal celebrated the end of a long and difficult military mission. It honored the soldiers for helping reach a peace agreement in 1988. This medal marked a political victory for Cuba after years of fighting in the region.

Who ordered the creation of this medal?

The Cuban government and the Council of State officially created this award in 1989. President Fidel Castro wanted to thank the troops who saw the long conflict through to the end. It was meant to show the nation's pride in their hard work.

Was it awarded posthumously?

Yes, the medal was given to families if a soldier passed away during the final part of the war. It served as a way to honor those who gave their lives for the mission. The country wanted to make sure their bravery and sacrifice were not forgotten.

What colors are on its ribbon?

The ribbon is designed with colors from the flags of both Cuba and Angola. It uses these specific shades to show the link between the two countries. These colors help tell the story of the teamwork between the two nations during the war.

How long were Cuban troops in Angola?

Cuban soldiers first arrived in Angola in 1975 to help during a civil war. They stayed for sixteen years to support the government against outside groups. By 1991, the mission finally came to an end as the troops returned home to Cuba.

What did the medal celebrate?

The medal celebrated the end of a long and difficult military mission. It honored the soldiers for helping reach a peace agreement in 1988. This medal marked a political victory for Cuba after years of fighting in the region.

Who ordered the creation of this medal?

The Cuban government and the Council of State officially created this award in 1989. President Fidel Castro wanted to thank the troops who saw the long conflict through to the end. It was meant to show the nation's pride in their hard work.

Was it awarded posthumously?

Yes, the medal was given to families if a soldier passed away during the final part of the war. It served as a way to honor those who gave their lives for the mission. The country wanted to make sure their bravery and sacrifice were not forgotten.

What colors are on its ribbon?

The ribbon is designed with colors from the flags of both Cuba and Angola. It uses these specific shades to show the link between the two countries. These colors help tell the story of the teamwork between the two nations during the war.

Home Library CubaMedal for Victory in the Republic of Angola

Campaign medal

Medal for Victory in the Republic of Angola

A campaign victory medal awarded to Cuban soldiers after finishing their long military mission in Angola.

Cuba Established 1989 Revolutionary Armed ForcesPrecedence: Worn following the Medal for Internationalist Combatants and the Cuito Cuanavale medal

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for honorable service during the final successful stages of the military mission in Angola.

Eligibility

Cuban armed forces personnel who completed tours of duty in the Angolan military campaign.

Branch

Revolutionary Armed Forces

Precedence

Worn following the Medal for Internationalist Combatants and the Cuito Cuanavale medal

Medal for Victory in the Republic of Angola, Campaign medal, Cuba medal

History

Cuba instituted this medal in 1989 as Cuban troops prepared to withdraw from Angola after sixteen years of fighting. President Fidel Castro wanted to recognize all soldiers who saw the conflict to its end.

Between 1975 and 1991, Cuban military personnel helped defend Angola from foreign invasion and rebel factions. When peace accords were signed, the mission concluded with a recognized political victory.

This award served as the final victory decoration for the long campaign, honoring both frontline soldiers and logisticians who brought the troops safely back to Cuba.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

Angolan Civil WarSouth African Border War

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Leopoldo Cintra Frías, including Medal for Internationalist Combatants, Commemorative Medal 20th Anniversary of the Revolutionary Armed Forces, Order of Ernesto Che Guevara, Medal for the Defense of Cuito Cuanavale, Medal for Victory in the Republic of Angola, Order of Antonio Maceo, shown against a light Cuba flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

Cold War

Medal for Internationalist Combatants Commemorative Medal 20th Anniversary of the Revolutionary Armed Forces Order of Ernesto Che Guevara+3

Leopoldo Cintra Frías

Who Was Leopoldo Cintra Frías?

A key commander for Cuban forces during the Angolan Civil War.

Cuba1987-1988

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Sources

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