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How do you know if the order was awarded for military service?

You can tell a medal is for military service if it has crossed swords added to the design. King Carol I started this tradition in 1877 to honor leaders during the fight for independence. These swords are placed between the arms of the cross or right above it. This design helps everyone see that the person showed great bravery or skill while leading soldiers in battle.

Is this order only for soldiers?

This award is not just for soldiers. Romania also has a special version for people who do great work in other areas. Politicians, artists, and foreign leaders can earn the award for helping the country in peaceful ways. This shows that the medal honors many kinds of people who make Romania proud.

What shape is the medal?

The medal is shaped like a beautiful cross. It features bright blue enamel in the center and is surrounded by golden rays. These rays make it look just like a glowing star. This fancy design has been used since 1877 to show that the medal is very important.

Can foreigners get this award?

Yes, people from other countries can receive this high honor. It is often given to allied generals and leaders of other nations to build strong friendships. Since the award was brought back in 1998, it has been given to many important NATO military leaders. It is a way for Romania to say thank you to friends around the world.

What is the highest rank of this order?

The highest level of this award is called the Collar of the Order. The next highest level is known as the Grand Cross. These are the most important ranks in the entire Romanian system of honors. Only the people who have served the country in the most amazing ways are chosen for these top spots.

How do you know if the order was awarded for military service?

You can tell a medal is for military service if it has crossed swords added to the design. King Carol I started this tradition in 1877 to honor leaders during the fight for independence. These swords are placed between the arms of the cross or right above it. This design helps everyone see that the person showed great bravery or skill while leading soldiers in battle.

Is this order only for soldiers?

This award is not just for soldiers. Romania also has a special version for people who do great work in other areas. Politicians, artists, and foreign leaders can earn the award for helping the country in peaceful ways. This shows that the medal honors many kinds of people who make Romania proud.

What shape is the medal?

The medal is shaped like a beautiful cross. It features bright blue enamel in the center and is surrounded by golden rays. These rays make it look just like a glowing star. This fancy design has been used since 1877 to show that the medal is very important.

Can foreigners get this award?

Yes, people from other countries can receive this high honor. It is often given to allied generals and leaders of other nations to build strong friendships. Since the award was brought back in 1998, it has been given to many important NATO military leaders. It is a way for Romania to say thank you to friends around the world.

What is the highest rank of this order?

The highest level of this award is called the Collar of the Order. The next highest level is known as the Grand Cross. These are the most important ranks in the entire Romanian system of honors. Only the people who have served the country in the most amazing ways are chosen for these top spots.

Home Library RomaniaOrder of the Star of Romania

Distinguished service decoration

Order of the Star of Romania

Romania's premier national order awarded with crossed swords to troops for distinguished military achievements.

Romania Established 1877 All servicesPrecedence: Senior-most order in the Romanian national honours system

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Conferred for outstanding military leadership, distinguished service, and heroism in time of war.

Eligibility

Military officers of Romania and allied nations.

Branch

All services

Precedence

Senior-most order in the Romanian national honours system

Order of the Star of Romania, Distinguished service decoration, Romania medal

History

Created by King Carol I in 1877 following Romania's fight for independence, the Star of Romania is the country's oldest national order. During wars, it is presented with crossed swords to honor military leaders for planning campaigns and defending the country.

The decoration saw widespread use during both World Wars, where officers received it for leading troops under fire. After being abolished by the communist regime in 1947, it was restored by the parliament in 1998 as Romania's senior national order, awarded to both Romanian and NATO military leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

Romanian War of IndependenceSecond Balkan WarWorld War I World War II War in Afghanistan

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Alexandru Averescu, including Order of the Crown of Romania, Order of the Star of Romania, shown against a light Romania flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

WWI

Order of the Crown of Romania Order of the Star of Romania

Alexandru Averescu

Who Was Alexandru Averescu?

A top Romanian commander during the First World War who led the decisive victory at Marasti.

RomaniaJuly 1917

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Sources

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