Medals & Awards

History
The Order of Courage was established by Russian presidential decree on March 2, 1994. The Russian Federation needed a dependable combat decoration to recognize intense bravery following the end of Soviet decorations. It took over the role previously held by Soviet-era combat orders.
Unlike many earlier honors, the Order of Courage is a single-class decoration. It features a bold silver cross pattée with the Russian coat of arms in the center. It quickly became one of the most widely awarded valor decorations during harsh conflicts in the North Caucasus region.
Over the decades, the order has also been given to police officers, firefighters, and emergency crews who rescued people from disasters. A special rule allows people who receive it three times for combat valor to be considered for Russia's highest hero award.


