Reevaluation of Existing Medals: Many pre-existing German medals were reevaluated to determine if their namesakes or the reasons for their award were associated with Nazi crimes or propaganda. Those found to have Nazi connections were often discontinued or renamed to reflect their historical significance rather than their Nazi connotations. For example, the German Cross‘ design replaced the central swastica for the iron cross.
Introduction of New Medals: New medals and awards were introduced to honor individuals and organizations who contributed to the reconstruction of Germany and the promotion of democratic values. For example, the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany (Bundesverdienstkreuz) was established in 1951 to recognize outstanding contributions to society, science, art, and politics.
Changes in Design: The designs of some existing medals were altered to remove Nazi symbolism or references. This included modifications to the Iron Cross and other military medals to ensure they represented the post-war democratic Germany.
Criteria for Awards: The criteria for receiving medals were also adjusted to reflect democratic values. Medals were awarded not just for military valor but also for contributions to society, culture, and humanitarian efforts in line with the new democratic principles.
Educational and Cultural Promotion: Some medals and awards were linked to educational and cultural programs aimed at promoting democracy and human rights. This was a way to use medals as tools for cultural and ideological transformation.
Military Medals: In the case of military medals, their design and criteria were adapted to honor not only military valor but also service to the new democratic Germany and international peacekeeping efforts.