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What war is this medal for?

This medal honors the soldiers and leaders who fought in the Second Sino-Japanese War. This difficult conflict lasted for eight long years from 1937 to 1945. It was a major part of the larger World War II fight against the Japanese invasion. The award was given to those who risked everything to protect their country during these years of occupation.

What picture is on the medal?

The medal displays a famous site called Pagoda Hill. This hill is found in the city of Yan'an. During the war, Yan'an served as the main headquarters for Chinese guerrilla fighters who led the resistance. The badge uses this image to show where many important plans for national freedom were made.

When was it handed out?

The Chinese government created this medal in 1955. It was made to honor the brave men and women who served during the tough war years. Although the fighting ended in 1945, this award was given ten years later to show that the nation still remembered their great sacrifice. It served as a way to officially thank the heroes of the war long after the peace was won.

Could resistance fighters get it?

Yes, they could. The medal was not just for soldiers in large, organized armies who fought on the front lines. It also honored secret guerrilla and resistance fighters who worked behind enemy lines to sabotage the invaders. These brave people risked their lives every day to protect their country throughout the long conflict.

Were there different levels?

Yes, the government created three different classes for this medal. The specific class a person received depended on their military rank and the level of leadership they showed during the war. Higher commanders earned different levels than other soldiers, which helped show the amount of responsibility each person carried. This system made sure that both top generals and brave local leaders were recognized.

What war is this medal for?

This medal honors the soldiers and leaders who fought in the Second Sino-Japanese War. This difficult conflict lasted for eight long years from 1937 to 1945. It was a major part of the larger World War II fight against the Japanese invasion. The award was given to those who risked everything to protect their country during these years of occupation.

What picture is on the medal?

The medal displays a famous site called Pagoda Hill. This hill is found in the city of Yan'an. During the war, Yan'an served as the main headquarters for Chinese guerrilla fighters who led the resistance. The badge uses this image to show where many important plans for national freedom were made.

When was it handed out?

The Chinese government created this medal in 1955. It was made to honor the brave men and women who served during the tough war years. Although the fighting ended in 1945, this award was given ten years later to show that the nation still remembered their great sacrifice. It served as a way to officially thank the heroes of the war long after the peace was won.

Could resistance fighters get it?

Yes, they could. The medal was not just for soldiers in large, organized armies who fought on the front lines. It also honored secret guerrilla and resistance fighters who worked behind enemy lines to sabotage the invaders. These brave people risked their lives every day to protect their country throughout the long conflict.

Were there different levels?

Yes, the government created three different classes for this medal. The specific class a person received depended on their military rank and the level of leadership they showed during the war. Higher commanders earned different levels than other soldiers, which helped show the amount of responsibility each person carried. This system made sure that both top generals and brave local leaders were recognized.

Home Library ChinaOrder of Independence and Freedom

Distinguished service decoration

Order of Independence and Freedom

This military decoration honored Chinese soldiers and leaders who fought bravely against Japanese forces in World War II.

China Established 1955 People's Liberation ArmyPrecedence: 2nd among the 1955 military orders, following the Order of Bayi

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for distinguished service and leadership during the War of Resistance Against Japan.

Eligibility

Soldiers, commanders, and underground fighters who served against Japanese forces from 1937 to 1945.

Branch

People's Liberation Army

Precedence

2nd among the 1955 military orders, following the Order of Bayi

Order of Independence and Freedom, Distinguished service decoration, China medal

History

Created by the Chinese government in 1955, the Order of Independence and Freedom honored those who defended the nation from Japanese invasion between 1937 and 1945. It recognized both frontline commanders and partisan fighters.

The medal featured a yellow badge showing Pagoda Hill in Yan'an, representing the headquarters of Chinese guerrilla operations during the war. It was divided into three classes based on command levels.

This award played a major part in recognizing the immense sacrifice of troops who fought during eight long years of foreign occupation across Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

Second Sino-Japanese WarWorld War II

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Zhu De, including Order of Bayi (1955), Order of Independence and Freedom, Order of Liberation, Order of the Resplendent Banner, shown against a light China flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

WWII

Order of Bayi (1955) Order of Independence and Freedom Order of Liberation+1

Zhu De

Who Was Marshal Zhu De?

The primary commander of the Chinese communist forces during the war against Japan.

China1937-1945

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Sources

Back to China