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What historic event does this medal commemorate?

This medal honors the brave people who took part in the 1979 Grand Mosque seizure in Mecca. A group of armed people took control of the mosque, which is the holiest site in Islam. The Saudi government had to act quickly to end the crisis and make the site safe again.

Who ordered this medal to be created?

King Khalid bin Abdulaziz created this special medal after the fighting ended. He wanted a way to thank the soldiers and security officers for their hard work and courage. It was his way of showing the country how much he valued their bravery during that difficult time.

Which forces took part in the battle?

Many different groups worked together to liberate the Grand Mosque. These included soldiers from the Saudi Army and the National Guard. Special police forces from the Ministry of Interior also helped to clear the site during the two weeks of intense fighting.

Why was the battle so challenging?

The battle was very dangerous because it took place inside one of the most sacred places in the world. Soldiers had to fight against extremists who were hiding in dark underground tunnels. They had to be extremely careful to secure the area without causing damage to the important site.

Is this medal still awarded today?

No, this medal is no longer being given out to new people. It was a one-time award made only for the specific soldiers and officers who fought in the 1979 operation. It serves as a special piece of history for those who served during that major event.

What historic event does this medal commemorate?

This medal honors the brave people who took part in the 1979 Grand Mosque seizure in Mecca. A group of armed people took control of the mosque, which is the holiest site in Islam. The Saudi government had to act quickly to end the crisis and make the site safe again.

Who ordered this medal to be created?

King Khalid bin Abdulaziz created this special medal after the fighting ended. He wanted a way to thank the soldiers and security officers for their hard work and courage. It was his way of showing the country how much he valued their bravery during that difficult time.

Which forces took part in the battle?

Many different groups worked together to liberate the Grand Mosque. These included soldiers from the Saudi Army and the National Guard. Special police forces from the Ministry of Interior also helped to clear the site during the two weeks of intense fighting.

Why was the battle so challenging?

The battle was very dangerous because it took place inside one of the most sacred places in the world. Soldiers had to fight against extremists who were hiding in dark underground tunnels. They had to be extremely careful to secure the area without causing damage to the important site.

Is this medal still awarded today?

No, this medal is no longer being given out to new people. It was a one-time award made only for the specific soldiers and officers who fought in the 1979 operation. It serves as a special piece of history for those who served during that major event.

Home Library Saudi ArabiaMedal of the Holy Mosque Reserve

Service medal

Medal of the Holy Mosque Reserve

A military honor awarded to soldiers and security forces who took part in liberating the Grand Mosque in Mecca in 1979.

Saudi Arabia Established 1979 All servicesPrecedence: Special campaign and operational service decoration.

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for active participation in the military operation to liberate and secure the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

Eligibility

Members of the Saudi Armed Forces, National Guard, and Ministry of Interior forces involved in the 1979 operation.

Branch

All services

Precedence

Special campaign and operational service decoration.

Medal of the Holy Mosque Reserve, Service medal, Saudi Arabia medal

History

In November 1979, an armed extremist group seized the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Islam's holiest site. The Saudi government deployed the National Guard, Army troops, and special security forces to liberate the sanctuary in two weeks of intense, dangerous combat.

Following the operation, King Khalid bin Abdulaziz authorized a special commemorative medal and honors for the soldiers and security officers who fought in the operation. The medal recognized their dedication to restoring peace to the sacred site under heavy enemy fire.

This decoration occupies a revered place in Saudi military history. It honors sacrifice in one of the most critical security crises faced by the Kingdom during the late 20th century.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

Grand Mosque Seizure

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz, including Order of King Abdulaziz, Medal of the Holy Mosque Reserve, Medal of Leadership, Order of King Faisal, shown against a light Saudi Arabia flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

Gulf War

Order of King Abdulaziz Medal of the Holy Mosque Reserve Medal of Leadership+1

Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz

Who was Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz?

The long-serving Minister of Defense who modernized the Saudi military during the late 20th century.

Saudi Arabia1991

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Sources

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