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What is the highest medal in Colombia?

The Military Order of St. Matthew is the most important award in the Colombian military. It was first created in 1914 to honor soldiers who show extreme bravery. Because it ranks first in importance, it is the greatest honor a service member can receive. It is only given to those who perform a heroic act while defending the nation from a foreign enemy.

Who is the medal named after?

The award is named to honor the historic Battle of San Mateo that took place in 1814. It specifically honors Captain Antonio Ricaurte, a brave officer who died during that fight. To stop the enemy from capturing supplies, he chose to blow up a building full of gunpowder. His sacrifice saved his fellow troops and made him a famous symbol of courage for all of Colombia.

Can you get this for any fight?

No, this medal is not given for just any kind of battle. It is reserved only for international wars where soldiers must defend Colombia from outside threats. Routine training, daily chores, or small fights do not qualify for such a high honor. It is strictly saved for the most dangerous times when the nation is at risk from another country.

Is it for civil wars?

This medal is not used for civil wars or any fighting that happens inside the borders of Colombia. It is meant only for conflicts against enemies from other nations. This strict rule makes the award very special and keeps it focused only on national defense. It represents the highest duty a soldier can show when protecting the entire country from outside attack.

What does the medal look like?

The medal is designed as a bright blue cross that catches the eye. In the center of the cross, there is a detailed picture showing Captain Antonio Ricaurte. This image serves as a constant reminder of the hero who gave his life for his country. When a soldier wears this medal on their uniform, it shows everyone that they have acted with the greatest courage possible.

What is the highest medal in Colombia?

The Military Order of St. Matthew is the most important award in the Colombian military. It was first created in 1914 to honor soldiers who show extreme bravery. Because it ranks first in importance, it is the greatest honor a service member can receive. It is only given to those who perform a heroic act while defending the nation from a foreign enemy.

Who is the medal named after?

The award is named to honor the historic Battle of San Mateo that took place in 1814. It specifically honors Captain Antonio Ricaurte, a brave officer who died during that fight. To stop the enemy from capturing supplies, he chose to blow up a building full of gunpowder. His sacrifice saved his fellow troops and made him a famous symbol of courage for all of Colombia.

Can you get this for any fight?

No, this medal is not given for just any kind of battle. It is reserved only for international wars where soldiers must defend Colombia from outside threats. Routine training, daily chores, or small fights do not qualify for such a high honor. It is strictly saved for the most dangerous times when the nation is at risk from another country.

Is it for civil wars?

This medal is not used for civil wars or any fighting that happens inside the borders of Colombia. It is meant only for conflicts against enemies from other nations. This strict rule makes the award very special and keeps it focused only on national defense. It represents the highest duty a soldier can show when protecting the entire country from outside attack.

What does the medal look like?

The medal is designed as a bright blue cross that catches the eye. In the center of the cross, there is a detailed picture showing Captain Antonio Ricaurte. This image serves as a constant reminder of the hero who gave his life for his country. When a soldier wears this medal on their uniform, it shows everyone that they have acted with the greatest courage possible.

Home Library ColombiaMilitary Order of St. Matthew

Valor decoration

Military Order of St. Matthew

This is the highest military award in Colombia, given for extreme bravery during wars to defend the country.

Colombia Established 1914 All servicesPrecedence: 1st, the highest military decoration

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for exceptional acts of valor during a war to defend Colombia.

Eligibility

Military personnel who show extreme bravery in defense of the nation.

Branch

All services

Precedence

1st, the highest military decoration

Military Order of St. Matthew, Valor decoration, Colombia medal

History

This order was named after the Battle of San Mateo. It honors Captain Antonio Ricaurte, who gave his life in that battle. It is the most important award a soldier can receive for fighting to protect Colombia.

It is only given for wars where Colombia is defending itself. It is not used for civil wars or small fights inside the country. It shows the highest level of courage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

International wars of defense

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Javier Rueda, including Military Medal Herido en Acción, Military Medal of Valor, Military Order of St. Matthew, shown against a light Colombia flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

Cold War

Military Medal Herido en Acción Military Medal of Valor Military Order of St. Matthew

Javier Rueda

Who Was Major Javier Rueda?

A decorated Colombian special forces officer known for his extreme bravery.

Colombia1991-02-26

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Sources

Back to Colombia