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The Medal for Rescue at Sea (Norway)

The Medal for Rescue at Sea was instituted in 1978 and is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated courage for the saving of life at sea.

The Medal for Rescue at Sea (or Medaljen for redningsdåd til sjøs in Norwegian) is a Norwegian honor established by Royal Decree on August 25, 1978. It holds the 14th position in the order of precedence for Norwegian orders, decorations, and medals.

This medal is conferred by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, based on recommendations from the Norwegian Maritime Directorate. It is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional courage, resourcefulness, and skill in saving lives at sea.

The Medal for Rescue at Sea Design

Crafted from silver, the Medal for Rescue at Sea features the Coat of Arms of Norway on the obverse, surrounded by the inscription “Kongeriket Norge” (Kingdom of Norway). The reverse bears the inscription “For Redningsdåd til Sjøs” (For Rescue at Sea) along the top edge, with an oak wreath below.

The medal is suspended from a ribbon that is red with a blue stripe edged in white down the center, mirroring the colors of the Norwegian flag.

The King Haakon VII Freedom Medal

The King Haakon VII Freedom Medal was awarded for significant service to Norway during World War II and established on 18 May 1945.

Established on May 18, 1945, King Haakon VII’s Medal of Liberty (or Haakon VIIs Frihetsmedalje in Norwegian) is a prestigious Norwegian award given to both Norwegian and foreign military and civilian personnel for their significant contributions to Norway during World War II.

This recognition extends to services rendered that did not necessarily involve direct combat with the enemy.

The King Haakon VII Freedom Medal Design

The medal is made of bronze and is circular in shape. It is suspended from the ribbon by a stylized bronze element folded at both ends.

On the obverse side, the medal features the monogram of King Haakon VII positioned over a letter V, symbolizing victory. This central design is encircled by a ring of beads, outside of which the inscription “ALT FOR NORGE 1940-1945” (ALL FOR NORWAY 1940-1945) is written.

The reverse side is plain except for a wreath of oak leaves, tied with a ribbon at the base, symbolizing strength and endurance.

The ribbon is a simple dark blue. When only the ribbon is worn, it is adorned with the King’s monogram in bronze, adding a distinguished touch to the decoration.

The Armed Forces Medal for Heroic Deeds

The Armed Forces Medal for Heroic Deeds, from 1982, is given for heroic deeds done while on active service for the Norwegian Defence Force.

The Armed Forces Medal for Heroic Deeds (or Forsvarets medalje for edel dåd in Norwegian) was instituted in 1982 to honor acts of heroism performed while on active duty in the Norwegian Defence Force.

This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary bravery and selflessness in the service of their country. It not only serves as a tangible recognition of individual acts of heroism but also as a symbol of the values upheld by the Norwegian Defence Force. 

The Armed Forces Medal for Heroic Deeds Design

The obverse of the medal prominently features the iconic Norwegian lion, symbolizing strength, courage, and national pride. This lion motif is a significant emblem in Norwegian heraldry and represents the valiant spirit of those who serve in the armed forces.

The reverse of the medal bears the inscription “FORSVARET FOR EDEL DÅD,” which translates to “The Defence For Noble Deed.” This inscription encapsulates the essence of the award, emphasizing the noble and commendable nature of the actions recognized by this medal.

The ribbon from which the medal is suspended is red with three yellow stripes. The red color signifies courage and sacrifice, while the yellow stripes add a distinctive touch, representing honor and valor.

The Norwegian War Medal

The Norwegian War Medal was instituted in 1941 by King Haakon VII of Norway and awarded for service during Second World War.

The War Medal (or Krigsmedaljen in Norwegian) is a Norwegian military decoration initially established to honor service during World War II, and later expanded to recognize meritorious service in wartime.

The Norwegian War Medal was instituted by King Haakon VII of Norway through a Royal Decree on May 23, 1941, with an additional decree on November 13, 1942. It is awarded to both Norwegian and foreign military personnel who have demonstrated meritorious participation in World War II on behalf of Norway. The medal can also be awarded posthumously to Norwegian and foreign individuals who served in the Norwegian forces or merchant marine and died for the Norwegian Resistance.

The War Medal Criteria

Although distribution of the medal ceased in 1951, a Royal Decree in 1979 reinstated it to honor Norwegian and foreign seamen who served on Norwegian Shipping and Trade Mission (Nortraship) vessels for at least 18 months, or on Royal Norwegian Navy vessels during World War II.

The criteria were revised again in 2012, allowing the medal to be awarded to Norwegians for distinguished wartime service to Norway. Notably, it has been awarded for efforts in the conflict against ISIL.

The War Medal Design

The obverse side of the medal showcases a portrait of King Haakon VII of Norway, along with his name and motto, “Alt for Norge” (All for Norway).

The reverse side features a wreath encircling the inscription “Krigsmedalje” (War Medal) and the king’s monogram.

Made of bronze, the medal is accompanied by a ribbon in the colors of the Royal Standard: red and yellow. Recipients who earn the medal multiple times may attach up to three stars to the ribbon. Each medal is issued with a certificate signed by the king. The initial production of the medal was handled by Spink & Son in London.

The King’s Medal of Merit

The King’s Medal of Merit was instituted in 1908 and is awarded for meritorious achievements in art, science, and public service.

The King’s Medal of Merit (or Kongens fortjenstmedalje in Norwegian) is a distinguished Norwegian award established in 1908 to honor notable accomplishments in the fields of art, science, business, and public service.

The medal is available in two classes: gold and silver. The gold medal is awarded for extraordinary achievements of significant importance to the nation and society, while the silver medal is given for noteworthy but lesser accomplishments. The medal is attached to a ribbon featuring the colors of the Royal Standard of Norway.

In terms of precedence, the gold medal ranks eighth among Norwegian orders and medals, whereas the silver medal ranks eleventh.

The King’s Medal of Merit Ribbon Bars

The Maudheim Medal

The Maudheim Medal (Maudheimmedaljen) was established by King Haakon VII of Norway on November 14, 1951, to honor the participants of the Norwegian-British-Swedish Antarctic Expedition of 1949–1952. This medal was awarded to recognize the efforts of those involved in the expedition, which was notable for being the first to Antarctica that included an international team of scientists. During the expedition, the team established a base named Maudheim on the Quar Ice Shelf along the coast of Queen Maud Land in February 1950.

The Antarctic Medal

The Antarctic Medal is a Norwegian civil decoration established by King Olav V on February 3, 1960. It was awarded to individuals involved in the Sixth Norwegian Antarctic Expedition. This medal holds the 27th position in the order of precedence of Norwegian honors, ranking below the Maudheim Medal but above H. M. The King’s Commemorative Medal in Gold. A total of 37 individuals associated with the Sixth Norwegian Antarctic Expedition received this medal.

The King’s Medal of Merit Design

The obverse of the medal features the head of the reigning Monarch along with their name and motto. As of 2015, there have been three versions: Haakon VII (1908–1957), Olav V (1957–1991), and Harald V (since 1991).

The reverse of the medal displays a wreath encircling the words “KONGENS FORTJENSTMEDALJE” (Royal Medal of Merit), with the recipient’s name engraved within the wreath.

The ribbon is red with a yellow stripe running down the center.

The Medal for Heroic Deeds (Norway)

The Medal for Heroic Deeds was instituted in 1885 and is awarded for honorable actions in saving lives. It originally had three classes.

The Medal for Heroic Deeds was established in Norway by royal resolution on August 19, 1885, to honor individuals for commendable acts in saving lives or performing similar brave deeds. Initially, the medal was available in three classes, but since 1905, it has only been awarded in gold and silver.

To qualify for the gold medal, the recipient must have executed an exceptionally notable rescue operation where their own life was at significant risk.

The Medal for Heroic Deeds Design

The medal is topped with the Crown of Norway, and the obverse features the portrait, name, and title of the reigning monarch. Currently, it displays the image of King Harald V of Norway, with the inscription «Harald den 5, Norges Konge» (Harald the Fifth, King of Norway).

The reverse side showcases an oak wreath and bears the words «For edel dåd» (For noble deed).

The ribbon accompanying the medal reflects the national colors of Norway: red, white, and blue.

The King Haakon VII Freedom Cross

The King Haakon VII Freedom Cross is awarded for for outstanding achievement in wartime and was established in Norway on 18 May 1945.

The King Haakon VII’s Freedom Cross (or Haakon VIIs Frihetskors in Norwegian) was instituted in Norway on May 18, 1945. This distinguished medal is awarded to both Norwegian and foreign military and civilian personnel in recognition of exceptional achievements during wartime.

As a significant honor, it holds the fifth position in the Norwegian order of precedence. The Freedom Cross symbolizes the gratitude and recognition of the Norwegian state for extraordinary contributions to the war effort, reflecting the enduring legacy of King Haakon VII’s leadership during challenging times.

The King Haakon VII Freedom Cross Design

The medal is designed as a Maltese cross. On the obverse, it features a circular red field at the center, displaying the gilded silver monogram of King Haakon VII over the letter V, symbolizing victory.

The reverse side is engraved with the inscription: “Alt for Norge 7 juni 1945” (All for Norway 7 June 1945), marking the date when King Haakon VII returned to Norway after five years of forced exile during World War II. The medal is suspended from a blue ribbon adorned with narrow white stripes along both edges.

The Royal Norwegian Order of Merit

The Royal Norwegian Order of Merit is an award reserved usually for foreigners and diplomats and was instituted by King Olav V in 1985.

The Royal Norwegian Order of Merit (or Den Kongelige Norske Fortjenstorden in Norwegian) was established by King Olav V in 1985.

This prestigious order is awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service in the interests of Norway, including foreigners, Norwegian citizens residing abroad, diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, foreign civil servants in Norway, and Norway’s honorary consuls. Unlike the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav, which is typically awarded to Norwegian citizens living in Norway, the Order of Merit recognizes contributions from those outside the country or those serving Norway in an international capacity.

Nominations for the Order are processed through the Protocol Department of the Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The King grants the Order based on recommendations from the Lord Chamberlain of the Court, the Chief Protocol Officer of the Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Head of Chancery of the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav.

The Order of Merit Grades

The order has five grades:

  • Grand Cross Commander, subdivided into:
    • Commander with Star 
    • Commander
  • Knight, subdivided into:
    • Knight 1st Class 
    • Knight

The Order of Merit Design

The Order features a distinctive deep blue moiré ribbon. The Grand Cross is worn on a broad sash draped over the right shoulder.

The Commander’s Cross is suspended from a ribbon worn around the neck. The Knight’s Cross is displayed on the left breast, also attached to a ribbon.

For women, both the Commander’s Cross and the Knight’s Cross are worn on the left breast, with the ribbon fashioned into a bow. Unlike the Order of St. Olav, the insignia of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit is owned by the recipient.

The Order of St. Olav

The Royal Norwegian Order of Saint Olav was instituted by King Oscar I in 1847 and is a Norwegian order of chivalry.

The Royal Norwegian Order of Saint Olav (or Den Kongelige Norske Sankt Olavs Orden; or Sanct Olafs Orden, the old Norwegian name) is a prestigious order of chivalry established by King Oscar I on August 21, 1847. Named after King Olav II, who is venerated as St. Olav, this order honors remarkable achievements for the benefit of Norway and humanity.

In 1904, shortly before the union with Sweden was dissolved in 1905, King Oscar II instituted the Order of the Norwegian Lion. However, no appointments were made by his successor, King Haakon VII, making the Order of St. Olav the sole order of chivalry in Norway for the next 80 years. The reigning monarch of Norway serves as the Grand Master of the order, which has been used to recognize outstanding contributions.

Since 1985, the order has been primarily awarded to Norwegian citizens, though foreign heads of state and royalty may still be honored as a courtesy.

Grades and Classes

The Order of Saint Olav consists of three main grades, with some grades further divided into classes. It recognizes both civilian and military contributions, with the Grand Cross being the highest distinction. The collar is a separate honor awarded to recipients of the Grand Cross who are deemed exceptionally worthy.

  • Grand Cross (Storkors): Awarded to heads of state as a courtesy and, in rare cases, to individuals for merit. Recipients wear the badge on a collar (chain) along with a star on the left chest. If the collar is not worn, the badge may be worn on a sash over the right shoulder.
  • Commander: This grade is divided into two classes:
    • Commander with Star (Kommandør med stjerne): Recipients wear the badge on a necklet and a star on the left chest.
    • Commander (Kommandør): Recipients wear the badge on a necklet.
  • Knight: This grade is also divided into two classes:
    • Knight 1st Class (Ridder av 1. klasse): Recipients wear the badge on a ribbon on the left chest.
    • Knight (Ridder): Recipients wear the badge on a ribbon on the left chest.

The Order of St. Olav Design

The collar of the Order is made of gold and features a series of decorative elements: five enamelled and crowned “O” monograms, five enamelled and crowned Norwegian coat-of-arms, and ten gold crosses bottony, each flanked by two battle axes with silver blades and golden shafts, a design also seen in the coat of arms of the Church of Norway.

The badge of the Order is a white enamelled Maltese Cross. For the knight class, the cross is silver, while for higher classes it is gilt. Between the arms of the cross are crowned “O” monograms. The central disc on the obverse side is red, showcasing a golden Norwegian lion holding a battle-axe. The reverse disc bears King Oscar’s motto, “Ret og Sandhed” (“Justice and Truth”), and both discs are surrounded by a white-blue-white ring. The cross is topped with a crown, and military awards include crossed swords between the crown and the cross.

The star of the Order for the Grand Cross is an eight-pointed silver star with faceted rays, featuring the badge of the Order minus the crown. The star for the Commander with Star is a silver faceted Maltese Cross with gilt crowned “O” monograms between the arms. The central disc is red with a golden Norwegian lion bearing a battle-axe, surrounded by a white-blue-white ring.

The ribbon of the Order is red with white-blue-white edge stripes.

The Medal for Outstanding Civic Service

The Medal for Outstanding Civic Service was established in 1819 and is the second highest ranked Norwegian medal.

The Medal for Outstanding Civic Service (or Medaljen for Borgerdåd in Norwegian), is the second highest-ranked medal in Norway. This prestigious award was first established by a Royal Resolution on April 10, 1819, and was subsequently modified by another Royal Resolution on April 13, 1844. The medal was conferred by the cabinet in a meeting presided over by the King, based on recommendations from the Norwegian Ministry of Justice.

The medal was divided into two grades: the first class in gold and the second class in silver. It recognized individuals who rendered exceptional service to society. However, in the spring of 2004, the medal ceased to be awarded.

In terms of the Norwegian order of precedence, recipients of the Medal for Outstanding Civic Service are ranked second, positioned after recipients of the War Cross with Sword and before holders of the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav.

The Medal for Outstanding Civic Service Design

The medal is circular and comes in two classes: gold for the first class and silver for the second class, symbolizing the level of achievement and distinction of the recipient.

The obverse of the medal features an intricate design, including the image of the reigning monarch at the time of its institution, surrounded by a detailed border.

The medal is suspended from a red ribbon with a central blue and white stripe.