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10 Second War Stories brings military history to life through stories, veteran profile, force profiles, and equipment guides across all nations and conflicts.

What was this award called before 1947?

This award was first known as the Military Order of Savoy. King Victor Emmanuel I of Sardinia created it way back in 1815. It was used to reward leaders for their great judgment and skill in wars like the Crimean War.

Who serves as the head of the order?

The President of the Italian Republic is the head of the order today. This change happened after Italy became a republic in 1947. The President oversees the order and decides who receives these important honors.

Is this award given only to generals?

Most of the time, this award goes to high-ranking commanders. However, it is not just for generals. Brave soldiers of lower ranks can receive the Knight class for their special service to Italy.

What colors are in the ribbon?

The medal hangs from a simple and bright ribbon. It features a bold red stripe right in the middle. This center stripe is framed by two blue stripes on the sides.

Was it awarded in modern conflicts?

Yes, it is still a very active honor today. It has been given to officers who led troops during the Gulf War and the war in Afghanistan. It continues to recognize leaders for their work in modern peacekeeping missions.

What was this award called before 1947?

This award was first known as the Military Order of Savoy. King Victor Emmanuel I of Sardinia created it way back in 1815. It was used to reward leaders for their great judgment and skill in wars like the Crimean War.

Who serves as the head of the order?

The President of the Italian Republic is the head of the order today. This change happened after Italy became a republic in 1947. The President oversees the order and decides who receives these important honors.

Is this award given only to generals?

Most of the time, this award goes to high-ranking commanders. However, it is not just for generals. Brave soldiers of lower ranks can receive the Knight class for their special service to Italy.

What colors are in the ribbon?

The medal hangs from a simple and bright ribbon. It features a bold red stripe right in the middle. This center stripe is framed by two blue stripes on the sides.

Was it awarded in modern conflicts?

Yes, it is still a very active honor today. It has been given to officers who led troops during the Gulf War and the war in Afghanistan. It continues to recognize leaders for their work in modern peacekeeping missions.

Home Library ItalyMilitary Order of Italy

Distinguished service decoration

Military Order of Italy

This prestigious military order honors superior command, brilliant leadership, and exceptional expertise during wartime operations.

Italy Established 1815 All servicesPrecedence: Highest ranking military order of the Italian Republic

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for brilliant military leadership, strategic expertise, and exceptional merit in armed conflict.

Eligibility

Italian officers, service members, and allied military leaders.

Branch

All services

Precedence

Highest ranking military order of the Italian Republic

Military Order of Italy, Distinguished service decoration, Italy medal

History

This order began as the Military Order of Savoy, founded in 1815 by King Victor Emmanuel I of Sardinia. It rewarded senior commanders and officers who showed masterful judgment and leadership in war.

In 1947, following the birth of the Italian Republic, the order was renamed the Military Order of Italy. Its statutes were refreshed to eliminate monarchy references while retaining its elite standing in the nation's military culture.

Today, the President of Italy serves as the head of the order. It is conferred across several classes, from Knight to Grand Cross, recognizing both top commanders and brave soldiers in combat or international crisis missions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

Crimean WarWorld War I World War II Gulf War War in Afghanistan

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Giovanni Messe, including War Cross of Military Valor, Commemorative Medal of Military Operations in East Africa, Order of Vittorio Veneto, Allied Victory Medal, Commemorative Medal for the Italo-Austrian War 1915-1918, War Merit Cross, Military Order of Italy, Bronze Medal of Military Valor, Silver Medal of Military Valor, Gold Medal of Military Valor, shown against a light Italy flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

WWII

War Cross of Military Valor Commemorative Medal of Military Operations in East Africa Order of Vittorio Veneto+7

Giovanni Messe

Who Was Marshal Giovanni Messe?

One of Italy's most decorated generals who led troops in multiple major wars.

Italy1943-05-13

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Sources

Back to Italy