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The New Zealand Cross (1869)

The New Zealand Cross was introduced in 1869 during the New Zealand Wars, fought between the Māori and forces raised by European settlers.

The New Zealand Cross was established in 1869, during the New Zealand Wars, a conflict between the indigenous Māori people and European settlers (Pākehā) aided by British troops. Throughout this turbulent period, marked by bravery and unwavering commitment to duty, numerous acts of gallantry and devotion were displayed by local militia, armed constabulary, and volunteers.

On March 10, 1869, without verifying the facts and under the mistaken belief that colonial troops were ineligible for the Victoria Cross unless under British command, Sir George Bowen, the Governor of New Zealand, introduced the New Zealand Cross as the highest honor in the country. This decision drew criticism in England, where it was seen as encroaching on Queen Victoria’s prerogatives. Nevertheless, Queen Victoria eventually endorsed this move.

The New Zealand Cross was awarded sparingly, with only 23 recipients. The first six awards were published in the New Zealand Gazette in 1869, followed by one award in 1870. Remarkably, the remaining 16 awards were not gazetted until between 1875 and 1910, some six to 44 years after the commendable actions they recognized.

The New Zealand Cross Design

The New Zealand Cross takes the shape of a silver cross pattée, with distinctive features adorning both its obverse and reverse sides. On the obverse, the central portion proudly bears the gilded gold inscription ‘NEW ZEALAND,’ encircled by an elegant laurel wreath. Each arm of the cross boasts a six-point gold star, and atop the cross rests a regal gold Imperial State Crown.

The reverse of the medal shows two concentric circles, with the recipient’s name skillfully engraved between them and the date of the heroic action etched within the inner circle.

A crimson ribbon passes through a silver suspender clasp embellished with delicate gold laurel leaves.

The first 20 medals crafted in 1871 included a distinctive feature on the reverse of the suspender clasp – the cartouche of the goldsmiths, Messrs Phillips Brothers and Son of Cockspur Street, London. However, this detail was omitted from a subsequent batch of five medals produced in 1886.

The Victoria Cross for New Zealand

The Victoria Cross for New Zealand is a military decoration awarded members of the New Zealand Armed Forces for valor or gallantry.

The Victoria Cross for New Zealand (VC) is a prestigious military decoration presented for acts of valor or gallantry in the presence of the enemy, recognizing the courage of individuals within the New Zealand Armed Forces. This commendation is not bound by rank, encompassing all services and even civilians under military command.

Established in 1999, the Victoria Cross for New Zealand is part of New Zealand’s updated honors system, replacing several British awards with homegrown distinctions.

It draws its inspiration from the original British Victoria Cross, initially introduced by Queen Victoria in 1856 to acknowledge acts of valor during the Crimean War. Notably, the Victoria Cross for New Zealand has been awarded just once, on July 2, 2007, recognizing Lance Corporal Willie Apiata for his actions in 2004. The medal itself is crafted from gunmetal sourced from cannons seized by the British during 19th-century campaigns, possibly in Russia or China. Australia and Canada similarly feature their own versions of the Victoria Cross, serving as the highest accolades for gallantry within their respective military personnel.

The Victoria Cross for New Zealand Design

The Victoria Cross for New Zealand faithfully adheres to the original design of the Victoria Cross. This distinguished decoration takes the form of a cross pattée with straight edges, measuring approximately 36 millimetres (1.4 inches) in both width and height. At its center, the cross bears a crown, atop which rests a majestic lion, accompanied by the inscription “For Valour.”

The cross gracefully hangs from a ring, connected to a seriffed “V”-shaped bar adorned with laurel leaves, through which the crimson ribbon is threaded. On the reverse side of the suspension bar, one finds an engraved record of the recipient’s name, rank, number, and unit. The reverse of the medal features a circular panel at its center, displaying the date of the act for which it was bestowed.

The ribbon is crimson, measuring 38 millimetres (1.5 inches) in width.

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The Marian Knight Cross (Order Of The German Knights)

The Marian Knight Cross (Marianerkreuz) is the symbol for the military Order created in 1128 to care for sick and wounded Christian pilgrims.

The roots of this Order can be traced back to the Order of the Knights of the Hospital of St. Mary of the Teutons in Jerusalem. It was initially established in 1128 as a military Order with the purpose of providing assistance to ailing and injured Christian pilgrims and establishing hospitals in the Holy Land. On November 19, 1190, Duke Friedrich from Swabia formally founded the Order.

During its Imperial Austrian iteration, this Order was bestowed upon nobles and clergy members who demonstrated dedication to the fields of nursing and the compassionate practice of mercy.

The Order gained recognition as a Roman Catholic Order, with subsequent Popes endorsing it. However, it faced abolition by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1809. It was subsequently reinstated in 1815 under the patronage of Imperial Austria and underwent reforms under Emperor Ferdinand I in both 1840 and 1871.

The Marian Knight Cross Design

The Marian Knight Cross is struck in silver and measures 35 by 42 mm. 

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Decoration for Meritorious Services (South Africa)

The Decoration for Meritorious Services was conferred until 1987 by the Government of the Republic of South Africa for political services.

The Decoration for Meritorious Services was an award granted until 1987 by the Government of the Republic of South Africa, typically in recognition of one’s political contributions to the nation. Appointments to this honor were made by the State President of South Africa.

Recipients of this distinction were entitled to use ‘DMS’ (or in Afrikaans, ‘DVD’) after their name. In 1986, it was succeeded by the Order for Meritorious Service.

Since June 1, 1994, this honor has been categorized as a Commonwealth distinction.

Decoration for Meritorious Services Design

The design featured a five-armed gold Maltese cross, with a golden protea flower at the center of a five-pointed diamond-studded star, all set against a multi-rayed silver and gold plaque on the obverse side. This decoration was worn suspended from a neck ribbon.

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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 Order of Good Hope, also known as the Order of the Cape of Good Hope, is an inactive order of merit originating from the Republic of South Africa. Founded in 1973 by the South African government of that time, its purpose was to recognize individuals who had made significant contributions to fostering international relations and raising awareness about South Africa’s interests. However, the order was abolished in 2002.

The Order of Good Hope was bestowed upon foreign citizens, and between 1980 and 1988, it was briefly extended to South Africans as well, primarily for their efforts in promoting international relations during a time when South Africa was increasingly isolated due to its apartheid policies.

The Order of Hope Classes

Originally, the order was divided into five classes:

  1. Grand Collar – Exclusively for heads of state.
  2. Grand Cross – Reserved for heads of government, ministers of state, judges, presidents of legislatures, secretaries of state, ambassadors, commanders-in-chief, and others.
  3. Grand Officer – Intended for legislators, envoys, senior military officers, and similar roles.
  4. Commander – Designated for chargés d’affaires, consuls-general, colonels, and comparable positions.
  5. Officer – Awarded to consuls, lower-ranking military officers, and others.

The order underwent reorganization in 1988, resulting in the following structure:

  1. Grand Cross – Recognizing excellent meritorious service, primarily for heads of state, and on special occasions, heads of government.
  2. Grand Officer – Reserved for outstanding meritorious service, encompassing heads of government, ministers of state, judges, presidents of legislatures, secretaries of state, ambassadors, commanders-in-chief, and others.
  3. Commander – Acknowledging exceptionally meritorious service by legislators, envoys, senior military officers, and similar roles.
  4. Officer – Commending meritorious service performed by chargés d’affaires, consuls-general, colonels, and comparable positions.
  5. Member – Honoring exceptional service rendered by consuls, lower-ranking military officers, and others.

The Order of Hope Design

President Nelson Mandela had expressed his intent to reform the Order, as the newly established South African government viewed it as a relic of apartheid. One key concern was that the order’s insignia was deemed too European in design, featuring rays, colors, an anchor, and a Latin motto. Additionally, the cost of the insignia for each initiate amounted to approximately 11,000 rand. Consequently, the Order of the Companions of O. R. Tambo was established in its stead.

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The Order of the Star of South Africa

The Order of the Star of South Africa is a South African National Order instituted by the Republic of South Africa and discontinued in 2002.

The Order of the Star of South Africa, a South African National Order, featured seven distinct decorations across both military and non-military categories. Established on July 1, 1975, by the Republic of South Africa, these decorations were awarded by the State President and, beginning in 1994, the President of South Africa. They were bestowed upon general and flag officers of the South African Defence Force in recognition of their outstanding contributions to national defense and security. This order replaced the 1952 Star of South Africa decoration and later included a civilian division in 1978.

The order drew its name from the Star of South Africa, the first significant diamond discovered in South Africa in 1869, along the banks of the Orange River. This discovery ignited the New Rush and led to the establishment of Kimberley.

Initially, the order exclusively recognized military merit, with two distinct classes:

  • The Star of South Africa, Gold (post-nominal letters SSA): Awarded for meritorious military service that enhanced the efficiency and readiness of the South African Defence Force, contributing significantly to national security.
  • The Star of South Africa, Silver (post-nominal letters SSAS): Recognizing exceptionally meritorious service of major military importance.

However, the order was discontinued on December 2, 2002, concluding its legacy of honoring those who played crucial roles in South Africa’s defense and security.

The Order of the Star of South Africa Design

The order’s obverse side features a gold or silver Maltese cross adorned with blue enamel. Two four-pointed stars are layered atop one another and upon the cross, with a central diamond. The pre-1994 South African Coat of Arms is depicted on the reverse side. In the SSA and SSAS classes of both divisions, protea flowers are positioned between the cross’s arms.

Each class possesses its distinct ribbon, with the first three classes worn around the neck and the others on the chest. Within the military division, the SSA ribbon is a plain dark blue, while the SSAS ribbon combines dark blue with a white central band. Until 1988, the Star of South Africa, Gold also featured a gold neck chain for ceremonial events.

In the non-military division, the ribbons exhibit dark blue with various combinations of orange and white bands:

  • Orange edges for the SSA.
  • White edges for the SSAS.
  • White edges and an orange center band for the CSSA.
  • White edges and an orange center band flanked by two white bands for the OSSA.
  • White edges with three white center bands for the MSSA.

Recipients of the SSA and SSAS classes also wear eight-pointed breast stars, showcasing the decoration’s obverse.

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The Woltemade Decoration for Bravery

The Woltemade Decoration for Bravery is a South African civil decoration for acts of bravery and was discontinued in 1961.

The Woltemade Decoration for Bravery is a South African civil decoration awarded for acts of bravery. It replaced the King’s Medal for Bravery, Silver and Queen’s Medal for Bravery. The award of which was discontinued in South Africa in 1961.

The Silver Woltemade Decoration for Bravery was established by the Republic of South Africa in 1970 through a Warrant dated May 20, 1970, as published in Government Gazette no. 2718 on May 29, 1970. Subsequently, the Warrant was modified twice, on November 11, 1971, and May 30, 1973, to broaden the criteria for eligibility for this decoration.

The decoration pays tribute to the heroic act of Wolraad Woltemade, an elderly employee of the Dutch East India Company. On June 1, 1773, he sacrificed his life to save shipwrecked sailors in Table Bay. During a powerful Northwestern gale, the ship De Jonge Thomas lost its anchor and was pushed ashore at the Salt River Mouth. Woltemade courageously rode his horse into the turbulent sea seven times, rescuing surviving sailors with each trip. Tragically, during his eighth rescue attempt, Woltemade and his exhausted horse were overwhelmed by panicked sailors and succumbed to the sea.

The Woltemade Decoration for Bravery Design

The decoration is crafted from silver, measuring 38 millimeters in diameter, featuring a raised rim and a sizable ring suspender.

On the obverse side, it showcases Wolraad Woltemade on his horse amidst the waves, with the words “FOR BRAVERY • VIR DAPPERHEID” encircling the upper perimeter. This design mirrors the one used on the earlier King’s and Queen’s Medals for Bravery, Silver.

The reverse side displays the South African Coat of Arms’ crest, where a lion holds four staves, symbolizing the four provinces of the Republic of South Africa. Surrounding the crest is a wreath of proteas, encircled by the inscriptions “REPUBLIEK VAN SUID-AFRIKA” above and “REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA” below.

The ribbon, 44 millimeters wide, is predominantly blue with 4 millimeters wide light orange edges. 

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The Union of South Africa Commemoration Medal

The The Union of South Africa Commemoration Medal is a military and civil medal that commemorates the opening of the first Union Parliament.

The Union of South Africa Commemoration Medal, both a military and civilian commemorative decoration, was bestowed in honor of the inauguration of the inaugural Union Parliament in 1910 by the Duke of Connaught and Strathearn. It can be regarded as one of the initial independence medals introduced across the Commonwealth during the 20th century.

The medal was conferred upon individuals from the military, naval forces, and select civilian leaders who played significant roles in the events. This recognition was based on the recommendation of the Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies. A roster was maintained, and it was to be finalized six months following the warrant’s issuance. After this period, any further awards could only be granted with Royal Approval and under highly exceptional circumstances.

The Union of South Africa Commemoration Medal Design

The medal was struck in silver and measures 36 millimetres in diameter. It also has a raised rim.

The obverse of the medal features a left-facing portrait of King George V, encircled by the inscription: “GEORGIVS V BRITT:OMN:REX ET IND:IMP:”. The medal is connected to a swiveling claw suspension, secured to the medal using a pin through its upper edge. The suspension includes a sizable ring.

On the reverse side, you can observe the representation of Mercury, symbolizing commerce and prosperity, crafting links of a chain on an anvil. Four of these links are inscribed with the names of the Union of South Africa’s provinces: “CAPE OF GOOD HOPE,” “NATAL,” “TRANSVAAL,” and “ORANGE RIVER.” Beneath this depiction, the year “1910” is intertwined with an olive branch. Surrounding the entire image is the inscription “TO COMMEMORATE THE UNION OF SOUTH AFRICA.”

The ribbon measures 38 millimeters in width and consists of two orange bands, each 10 millimeters wide, separated by a central dark blue band that is 18 millimeters wide.

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The Union of South Africa King’s Medal for Bravery

The Union of South Africa King’s Medal for Bravery was the country’s highest civilian decoration between 1910 and 1961.

The Union of South Africa King’s Medal for Bravery 1910 was a military decoration awarded for acts of bravery and valor within the Union of South Africa, which was established in 1910 when the various British colonies and territories in South Africa united to form a single self-governing dominion within the British Commonwealth.

The medal was awarded during the reign of King George V. 

The King’s Medal for Bravery 1910 was awarded for acts of bravery and heroism performed within the boundaries of the Union of South Africa. It was primarily intended to recognize acts of courage and selflessness by civilians, police officers, and members of the military.

The King’s Medal for Bravery 1910 is no longer awarded, but it is a part of South Africa’s historical honors system and represents acts of bravery and heroism during the early years of the Union of South Africa

The Union of South Africa King’s Medal for Bravery Design

The medal is crafted in silver-gilt and takes the form of a 38-millimeter diameter disk with a raised edge and a prominent ring suspender.

On the obverse, it features the crowned likeness of King George VI, facing left, encircled by the inscription “GEORGIVS VI REX ET IMPERATOR” along the upper edge. 

The reverse was selected through public competition. The victorious entry was designed by Miss Renee Joubert and portrays the 18th-century Cape hero Wolraad Woltemade mounted on his horse, saving shipwreck survivors from a turbulent sea. Consequently, the medal came to be widely known as the “Woltemade Medal.“

The ribbon is 44 millimeters wide and dark blue with 4½ millimeters wide orange edges.

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Olympic Medal Winners Who Were Also Awarded Military Medals

Many athletes have served in their country’s armed forces and have received military honors for service while also achieving Olympic success.

A select group of athletes have achieved the remarkable feat of standing atop the podium at the Games while also earning the highest honors in their country’s armed forces. These individuals exemplify exceptional courage, dedication, and excellence, not only as Olympic medal winners but also as recipients of military decorations.

In this article, we delve into the extraordinary stories of Olympic champions who displayed unwavering commitment not only in the pursuit of athletic glory but also in serving their nations with valor on the battlefield. Join us as we salute these true champions, whose legacies shine brightly in the worlds of sports and military service.

Jackie Robinson

Jackie Robinson‘s life story is a remarkable testament to his resilience, courage, and extraordinary talent, not only as a barrier-breaking athlete but also as a dedicated member of the U.S. Army during a pivotal period in American history. His journey from serving his country in the military to shattering the racial barriers of Major League Baseball (MLB) is a testament to his character and enduring legacy.

Jackie Robinson’s service in the U.S. Army took place during World War II, at a time when the armed forces were still segregated along racial lines. Despite the segregation and discrimination he faced, Robinson’s commitment to his duty was unwavering. He served as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army, demonstrating not only his patriotism but also his leadership qualities. His service culminated in an honorable discharge, but his impact extended far beyond the military.

After returning to civilian life, Jackie Robinson embarked on a journey that would forever change the landscape of professional sports. In 1947, he made history by becoming the first African American to break the color barrier in Major League Baseball when he signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers. This monumental achievement was met with both praise and resistance, but Robinson’s grace, composure, and exceptional skills on the baseball diamond silenced his critics.

In commemorating Jackie Robinson’s life and legacy, we not only celebrate his historic contributions to the world of sports but also recognize his enduring impact on the fight for equality and justice. His legacy serves as a reminder that the power of sports extends beyond the playing field, and individuals like Jackie Robinson can inspire meaningful change in society.

Jackie Robinson's Military Medals

President Ronald Reagan posthumously awarded Robinson the Presidential Medal of Freedom on March 26, 1984, and President George W. Bush gave Robinson’s widow the Congressional Gold Medal on March 2, 2005.

Jackie Robinson with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1954.
Jackie Robinson with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1954. Image courtesy of Wikimedia.

George S. Patton

George S. Patton, a name synonymous with military leadership and valor, had a multifaceted career that extended beyond his renowned role as a general in World War II. However, long before his illustrious military career took shape, Patton was a remarkable athlete and skilled horseman who once represented the United States on the world’s grandest sporting stage—the Olympic Games.

In the summer of 1912, George Patton, then a young and ambitious cavalry officer, made his mark at the Stockholm Olympics by competing in the modern pentathlon, an event designed to test the skills needed for a 19th-century cavalry officer behind enemy lines. This demanding competition comprised five disciplines: pistol shooting, fencing, 300-meter freestyle swimming, equestrian show jumping, and a 4,000-meter cross-country run. Patton’s participation in the pentathlon showcased his exceptional versatility and athleticism.

At the Olympic Games in Stockholm, Patton’s performance was a testament to his dedication and competitive spirit. Despite stiff competition from athletes representing various nations, he displayed remarkable skill and determination, ultimately finishing in fifth place—an impressive feat in itself. Although Patton didn’t stand atop the Olympic podium, his experience in the pentathlon would later serve as a testament to his ability to excel under pressure, a trait that would define his military career.

Fast forward to the tumultuous years of World War II, and George S. Patton emerged as one of the most iconic and effective military leaders of the Allied forces. Known for his audacious leadership style, unyielding determination, and strategic brilliance, Patton’s contributions to the war effort were nothing short of legendary.

George S. Patton's Military Medals

Throughout his military service, General Patton received a plethora of military honors and decorations, underscoring his immense impact on the battlefield. His list of accolades includes the Distinguished Service Cross, the Distinguished Service Medal, two Silver Stars, and two Purple Hearts, among others. 

Patton as a temporary colonel at Camp Meade, Maryland, 1919.
Patton as a temporary colonel at Camp Meade, Maryland, 1919. Image courtesy of Wikimedia.

Aleksandr Karelin

Aleksandr Karelin, a towering figure in both the world of sports and the Russian military, is celebrated not only for his remarkable achievements in Greco-Roman wrestling but also for his distinguished service as a high-ranking officer in the Russian Army. Karelin’s legacy is one of unparalleled athletic prowess, unwavering dedication to his country, and a profound commitment to excellence.

Born in Siberia in 1967, Karelin’s journey to becoming one of the most dominant wrestlers in history began early in life. His innate strength, combined with an unparalleled work ethic, led him to a meteoric rise in the world of Greco-Roman wrestling. 

Karelin’s Olympic journey commenced with a gold medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, where he announced himself as a force to be reckoned with on the international stage. He continued his reign of dominance with consecutive gold medals at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, further solidifying his status as an all-time great in the sport.

In the midst of his extraordinary wrestling career, Karelin pursued a parallel path of service to his country. Rising through the ranks of the Russian Army, he achieved the rank of Colonel, a position of immense responsibility and leadership. His military service was characterized by the same commitment to excellence that defined his wrestling career.

Beyond his medals and accolades, Aleksandr Karelin’s impact transcended the boundaries of sports and military service. He inspired generations of athletes and servicemen with his unwavering dedication to his craft and his country.

Aleksandr Karelin's Military Medals

Some of the notable military medals and honors Karelin received during his service include the Order of Courage, Order of Military Merit, Medal for Military Merit, and Medal for the Return of Crimea.

Aleksandr Karelin. World Combat Games 2013, Saint Petersburg, 23.10.2013
Aleksandr Karelin. World Combat Games 2013. Image courtesy of Wikimedia.

Louis Zamperini

Louis Zamperini’s remarkable life journey encompasses extraordinary feats of athleticism, indomitable resilience, and unwavering valor in the face of adversity. From his early days as a gifted distance runner to his harrowing experiences as a World War II bombardier, Zamperini’s legacy is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Born in 1917 in Olean, New York, Louis Zamperini quickly established himself as a standout track and field athlete during his high school years. His talent and determination paved the way for a collegiate career at the University of Southern California, where he achieved immense success as a middle-distance and long-distance runner. Zamperini’s crowning achievement as an athlete came at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where he represented the United States in the 5,000 meters event. In an inspiring display of tenacity, he secured a silver medal, earning him global recognition for his outstanding athletic prowess.

However, Zamperini’s journey was far from over. With the outbreak of World War II, he enlisted in the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) and underwent training as a bombardier. Little did he know that his life would soon be marked by a series of unimaginable trials.

During a combat mission in the Pacific theater, Zamperini’s plane crashed into the ocean, leaving him and two fellow crewmembers stranded at sea for a staggering 47 days. Their story of survival amidst starvation, exposure, and shark-infested waters is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Finally rescued by Japanese forces, Zamperini was captured and endured brutal conditions as a prisoner of war.

Throughout his internment, Zamperini’s unwavering spirit remained unbroken. His remarkable journey from Olympic athlete to prisoner of war survivor is detailed in Laura Hillenbrand’s bestselling book, “Unbroken,” which later became a feature film.

Louis Zamperini's Military Medals

Louis Zamperini’s military service earned him numerous awards and honors, recognizing his exceptional courage and service to his country. Notable among these awards are the Purple Heart and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Zamperini wearing a Torrance High School track uniform, 1938.
Zamperini wearing a Torrance High School track uniform, 1938. Image courtesy of Wikimedia.