- Time Period: Post-WW2
- Institution: 30 November 2003
- Country: South Africa
The Order of Mendi for Bravery is a civilian honor in South Africa bestowed upon individuals who have displayed acts of bravery in endeavors to rescue lives or property. Authorized by the President of South Africa, this recognition is conferred upon South African citizens for their courageous actions, regardless of the location of the incident. Established on November 30, 2003, initially known as the Mendi Decoration for Bravery, it was later designated as an order on October 22, 2004.
The order pays homage to the SS Mendi, a troopship tragically sunk in 1917 following a collision, resulting in the loss of over 600 black South African troops. Despite being a civilian distinction, it has been presented to military units, including those involved in the rescue operations during the 1991 MTS Oceanos disaster and the 2000 Mozambican floods.
The Order of Mendi has three classes:
- Gold (OMBG), for conspicuous bravery;
- Silver (OMBS), for exceptional bravery; and
- Bronze (OMBB), for outstanding bravery.
The Order of Mendi for Bravery Design
The insignia of the order is designed in the shape of a traditional African shield, oval in form. Its front side features an image of the SS Mendi, accompanied by a blue crane flying overhead. Above this depiction, a green emerald is sealed, encircled by depictions of the bitter aloe on three sides. Crossed assegai and knobkierrie adorn the background of the shield, while lion pawprints decorate the border.
The reverse side showcases the Coat of Arms of South Africa. Alongside the neck badge, the award includes a miniature medallion and a lapel rosette.
More South African Orders
The Louw Wepener Decoration
The Louw Wepener Decoration is a military honor established by the Union of South Africa in 1952 to recognize acts of remarkable bravery.
The Nkwe ya Gauta Golden Leopard Medal
The Nkwe ya Gauta Golden Leopard Medal is a South Africa military honor awarded for acts of bravery. It was established in 2003.
The Order of Good Hope
The Order of Good Hope is a dormant order of merit of the Republic of South Africa. It was founded in 1973 by the government.
The Permanent Force Good Service Medal
The Permanent Force Good Service Medal was established by the Republic of South Africa in 1961 as a replacement for the Union Medal.
