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The National Defense Medal (Portugal)

The National Defense Medal is a Portuguese military medal created in 2002 and awarded to military and civilian personnel for high competence.

The National Defense Medal is a Portuguese military decoration established on December 27, 2002. It is awarded in four classes to honor military and civilian personnel, both national and foreign, who demonstrate exceptional technical-professional competence, extraordinary performance, and significant personal qualities. These individuals contribute substantially to the efficiency, prestige, and mission fulfillment of the Ministry of National Defense.

The medal was the latest addition among five specialized medals created to recognize services to the Ministry of National Defense. It followed the creation of three branch-specific medals in 1985 and the General Staff of the Armed Forces’ private medal, the Cross of Saint George, which was established two years earlier.

The National Defense Medal is awarded according to the following criteria:

  • 1st Class (MPDN): General officers and captains or colonels.
  • 2nd Class (MSDN): Frigate captains or lieutenant colonels and lieutenant captains or majors.
  • 3rd Class (MTDN): Other officers and sergeant majors.
  • 4th Class (MQDN): Other sergeants and enlisted personnel.

The National Defense Medal Design

The insignia of the National Defense Medal is designed to reflect the distinguished service and contributions of its recipients. The medal’s design varies according to its class, symbolizing the level of achievement and rank of the awardee.

  • 1st Class (MPDN): Features an ornate medal with intricate details, typically worn on a neck ribbon or sash. The design includes elements such as gold accents and the national coat of arms, signifying high honor and leadership.
  • 2nd Class (MSDN): Similar to the 1st Class but slightly less elaborate, worn on a neck ribbon. It maintains the prestigious design elements to denote significant contribution and command.
  • 3rd Class (MTDN): A medal worn on a neck ribbon, reflecting the commendable service of officers and sergeant majors. The design is simpler than the higher classes but retains important symbols of military excellence.
  • 4th Class (MQDN): The most basic design, worn on a chest ribbon. It recognizes the valuable contributions of sergeants and enlisted personnel, featuring essential elements like the national emblem.

The Order of Saint Isabel

The Order of Saint Isabel was created in 1801 in honor of Queen Saint Isabel, consort of Portuguese King Denis I.

The Order of Queen Saint Isabel (or Ordem da Rainha Santa Isabel in Portuguese) is a Roman Catholic dynastic order currently headed by the Duchess of Braganza as its Grand Mistress.

The Order was established on 4 November 1801 by King John VI of Portugal in honor of Queen Saint Isabel, the consort of King Denis I of Portugal. King John VI invested his wife, Carlota Joaquina, as the first Grand Mistress of the Order.

Following the replacement of the monarchy with a republic on 5 October 1910, the Order, being dynastic in nature, continued to be conferred by the exiled King Manuel II of Portugal. After his death, the Order’s Grand Mistress insignia continued to be used by the Queen and Queen Mother.

In 1986, Duarte Pio, Duke of Braganza, re-established the Order of Saint Isabel as an honorific dynastic order of the Portuguese Royal Family, asserting his role as its Sovereign Grand Master. The Duchess of Braganza, as the current Grand Mistress, honors Portuguese noblewomen on Saint Isabel’s feast day, celebrated annually on 4 July at the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova in Coimbra. Since 2000, the Royal House has also bestowed the Order on various queens, princesses, and women dedicated to supporting Portuguese charities.

The Order of Saint Isabel Design

The insignia of the Order features a sash that is pale pink with a white stripe in the center.

The accompanying crowned medallion depicts Queen Saint Isabel giving money to a poor man, surrounded by a frame adorned with roses, symbolizing the Queen’s miracle of the roses.

The motto of the insignia is “Pauperum Solatio,” which means “Consolation of the Poor.“

The Order of Liberty (Portugal)

The Order of Liberty or Order of Freedom was established in 1976 and distinguishes relevant services to the cause of democracy and freedom.

The Order of Liberty (or Ordem da Liberdade in Portuguese) is a prestigious Portuguese civil order that honors significant contributions to democracy and freedom, particularly in defending the values of civilization and human dignity.

Established in 1976 following the Carnation Revolution of 1974, which overthrew the corporatist authoritarian Estado Novo regime of António de Oliveira Salazar and Marcello Caetano, this order reflects Portugal’s commitment to democratic principles.

The Grand Collar can be conferred by the President of Portugal to former heads of state and individuals whose extraordinary deeds are of particular relevance to Portugal. This includes political actions, acts of physical defense, or outstanding representation of Portugal internationally.

The Order of Liberty Grades

The Order of Liberty comprises six classes, listed in decreasing order of seniority:

  • Grand Collar (Grande-Colar – GColL)
  • Grand Cross (Grã-Cruz – GCL)
  • Grand Officer (Grande-Oficial – GOL)
  • Commander (Comendador – ComL)
  • Officer (Oficial – OL)
  • Knight/Dame (Cavaleiro – CvL / Dama – DmL)

Additionally, the title of Honorary Member (Membro Honorário – MHL) can be awarded to institutions and localities.

The Order of Liberty Design

The insignia of the Order of Liberty is characterized by a ribbon and badge design that reflects the values of freedom and democracy.

The badge typically features symbols and motifs that represent liberty and human dignity, often incorporating elements that signify the struggle and triumph over authoritarianism. The exact design details, including the colors and specific symbols, emphasize the Order’s dedication to the principles of freedom and the protection of human rights.

The Grand Collar, Grand Cross, and other higher classes often include more elaborate and intricate designs, befitting their seniority and the distinguished nature of their recipients.

The Most Glorious Order of the Ojaswi Rajanya

The Most Glorious Order of the Ojaswi Rajanya was established by King Tribhuvan on May 14, 1934 and comprises several ranks.

The Most Glorious Order of the Ojaswi Rajanya (or Ojaswi Rajanyako Manapadvi in Nepali) was established by King Tribhuvan on May 14, 1934. 

The order is conferred upon distinguished individuals, specifically members of the Nepalese royal family, foreign royal families, and foreign Heads of State. It serves as a symbol of honor and recognition for their significant contributions and exceptional service, fostering diplomatic and friendly relations between Nepal and other nations.

The Order of the Ojaswi Rajanya is structured into three distinct classes:

  • Sovereign (Parama-Ojaswi-Rajanya): The highest rank, usually held by the reigning monarch.
  • Grand Master (Ati-Ojaswi-Rajanya): A rank awarded to high-ranking members of the royal family or esteemed foreign royals.
  • Ordinary Members (Ojaswi-Rajanya): Individuals who have rendered notable service or demonstrated significant achievements.

Since its inception, the order has played a crucial role in enhancing Nepal’s diplomatic engagements and recognizing the contributions of key figures in both national and international contexts.

The Order of the Ojaswi Rajanya Design

The ribbon of the order is light yellow with narrow white edge stripes. It features a badge that is worn on the chest as well as another badge attached to a sash ribbon.

The Tribhuvan Order of the Footprint of Democracy

The Tribhuvan Order of the Footprint of Democracy was established by King Mahendra on May 2, 1956, in honor of his father, King Tribhuvan.

  • Time Period: Post-WW2
  • Institution: 16 December 1962
  • Country: Nepal

The Tribhuvan Order of the Footprint of Democracy (or Tribhuvan Prajatantra Shripada in Nepali) was established by King Mahendra on May 2, 1956, in honor of his father, King Tribhuvan.

This prestigious order is conferred exclusively on Nepalese citizens who have provided valuable services to the country, particularly those associated with the revolution that led to the removal of the Rana regime.

The order comprises several ranks:

  • Sovereign: Parama-Gaurabmaya-Tejaswi-Tribhuvan-Prajatantra-Shripada
  • Grand Master: Ati-Gaurabmaya-Tejaswi-Tribhuvan-Prajatantra-Shripada

Additionally, there are five classes for ordinary members:

  1. Maha-Gaurabmaya-Tejaswi-Tribhuvan-Prajatantra-Shripada
  2. Sugaurabmaya-Tejasvi-Tribhuvan-Prajatantra-Shripada
  3. Gaurabmaya-Tejaswi-Tribhuvan-Prajatantra-Shripada
  4. Tejaswi-Tribhuvan-Prajatantra-Shripada
  5. Tribhuvan-Prajatantra-Shripada

The Tribhuvan Order of the Footprint of Democracy Design

The insignia features a circular medallion at its center. The central medallion is surrounded by intricate goldwork and is encircled by a decorative, multi-layered border that radiates outward.

The central part of the insignia contains a detailed and finely crafted footprint, symbolizing the “Footprint of Democracy.” The footprint is set against a richly colored background. Encircling the central medallion, the insignia includes a series of elegant, ornamental designs. 

The Order of the Three Divine Powers

The Order of the Three Divine Powers was established by King Tribhuvan in 1937 and is an order of knighthood of the former Kingdom of Nepal.

The Most Illustrious Order of Tri Shakti Patta (or त्रिशक्ति पट्ट, Tri Shakti Patta in Nepali) is a distinguished order of knighthood from the former Kingdom of Nepal.

This honor is bestowed upon members of the royal family, Nepalese citizens who have made exceptional contributions to the nation, and foreigners who have provided significant benefits to Nepal.

The medal was initially established by King Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah Dev in 1936 and was formally instituted as an order on November 27, 1937, by the same monarch.

Following the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, the new government introduced a revised series of awards. The Nepal Ratna Man Padavi became the highest class of these new honors, with the Rastra Gaurav Man Padavi as the second highest. These awards are now conferred by the President of Nepal on Republic Day, May 29.

The Order of Tri Shakti Patta has five classes and a medal:

  • Member First Class (Jyotirmaya-Subikhyat-Tri-Shakti-Patta)
  • Member Second Class (Subikhyat-Tri-Shakti-Patta)
  • Member Third Class (Bikhyat-Tri-Shakti-Patta)
  • Member Fourth Class (Prakhyat-Tri-Shakti-Patta)
  • Member Fifth Class (Tri-Shakti-Patta)
  • Medal (Tri-Shakti-Patta-Padak)

The Order of the Three Divine Powers Design

The ribbon of the order is navy blue with green edges bordered by white.

The Order of the Footprint of Nepal

The Order of the Footprint of Nepal was founded by King Mahendra in 1962. It’s awarded for significant contributions to national prestige.

  • Time Period: Pre-WW1
  • Institution: 16 December 1962
  • Country: Nepal

The Order of the Footprint of Nepal (or Nepal Shripada) was established by King Mahendra on December 16, 1962.

This prestigious award is exclusively conferred upon Nepalese citizens who have made significant contributions to enhancing the national prestige of Nepal.

The order comprises various ranks, including:

  • The Sovereign (Parama-Ujjwala-Kirtimaya-Nepal-Shripada)
  • The Grand Master (Ati-Ujjwala-Kirtimaya-Nepal-Shripada).

Additionally, there are five classes of ordinary members:

  • Maha-Ujjwala-Kirtimaya-Nepal-Shripada
  • Ujjwala-Kirtimaya-Nepal-Shripada
  • Sukirtmaya-Nepal-Shripada
  • Kirtimaya-Nepal-Shripada
  • Nepal-Shripada.

Each class reflects a different level of recognition for the recipient’s service and dedication to the country, symbolizing their esteemed contributions to Nepal’s honor and reputation.

The Order of the Footprint of Nepal Design

The ribbon is red with a narrow blue central stripe and 2 white edge stripes on each side.

The Most Glorious Mahendra Chain

The Most Glorious Mahendra Chain was instituted in 1961 by the King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev and is a royal decoration of Nepal.

  • Time Period: Post-WW2
  • Institution: 26 February 1961
  • Country: Nepal

The Most Glorious Mahendra Chain (or महेन्द्र माला मानपदवी Mahendra Mala Manapadvi in Nepali) is a prestigious royal decoration of Nepal.

Established on February 26, 1961, by King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev. The decoration was named in his honor, reflecting the monarch’s desire to recognize and honor significant contributions to the nation.

The medal is intended to honor reigning sovereigns, reflecting their paramount role and contributions to the state. It symbolizes the highest level of respect and recognition from the Nepalese monarchy, awarded for exceptional service and dedication to the nation.

The decoration is awarded in a single class, the Chain, and is exclusively conferred upon reigning sovereigns, making it one of the highest and most exclusive honors in the Nepalese system of awards and decorations.

The Most Glorious Mahendra Chain Design

The chain includes elements symbolizing the country’s heritage, monarchy, and national pride.

The Most Glorious Mahendra Chain Awardees

Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom

Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch, was awarded the Most Glorious Mahendra Chain as a symbol of the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between Nepal and the United Kingdom. Her Majesty’s reign has seen significant global changes and she has been a figure of stability and continuity in the Commonwealth. The honor bestowed upon her by King Mahendra reflects the mutual respect and long-standing relationship between the two countries, emphasizing cooperation and goodwill.

King Birendra

King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev was the King of Nepal from 1972 until his tragic assassination in 2001. He is remembered for his efforts to modernize Nepal, maintain its non-aligned foreign policy, and uphold the traditions of the monarchy while responding to the changing political landscape. King Birendra’s reign saw significant social and economic developments in Nepal. The Most Glorious Mahendra Chain was awarded to him to honor his leadership and commitment to the nation’s progress and stability.

Queen Aishwarya

Queen Aishwarya Rajya Lakshmi Devi Shah, the consort of King Birendra, was also a recipient of the Most Glorious Mahendra Chain. She played a significant role in the cultural and social spheres of Nepal, advocating for various charitable causes and supporting the arts. Her efforts to preserve and promote Nepalese culture and traditions were recognized through this prestigious award, reflecting her contributions to the nation’s cultural heritage.

King Gyanendra

King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, the younger brother of King Birendra, ascended to the throne following the royal massacre in 2001. His reign was marked by significant political turmoil, including the transition from a monarchy to a federal democratic republic. Despite these challenges, King Gyanendra’s contribution to Nepal’s history and his role during a critical period of transition were acknowledged with the Most Glorious Mahendra Chain, honoring his service and dedication to the country.

Queen Komal

Queen Komal Rajya Lakshmi Devi Shah, the consort of King Gyanendra, was awarded the Most Glorious Mahendra Chain in recognition of her role and contributions as the queen. She supported various social and humanitarian efforts, focusing on health, education, and welfare. Queen Komal’s commitment to improving the lives of Nepalese citizens and her support for cultural initiatives were significant aspects of her public life, making her a deserving recipient of this royal decoration.

The Order of Christian VII

The Order of Christian VII was a Danish order of knighthood established in 1774 and designed to replace the Order of Mathilde.

The Order of Christian VII, also known as “Tessera Concordiæ” or “Christian VIIs Orden” in Danish, was a knighthood order established on October 21, 1774, by King Christian VII of Denmark. It was created to replace the Order of Mathilde after Queen Caroline Mathilde’s banishment in 1772.

This order was exclusively for the Danish royal family, awarded to both men and women.  The order fell into disuse after the death of Queen-Dowager Juliana Maria in 1796.

The Order of Christian VII Design

Men wore the insignia on the left breast, while women wore it on a bow on their left shoulder. Notably, Danish Princess Louise Augusta was depicted wearing it in a 1784 portrait by Jens Juel.

The Order of Mathilde

The Order of Mathilde was created in 1771 by the queen of Denmark-Norway, Caroline Matilda, on the birthday of Christian VII of Denmark.

The Order of Mathilde (or Mathildeordenen in Danish) was a Danish royal order established by Queen Caroline Matilda of Denmark-Norway on January 29, 1771, coinciding with King Christian VII’s birthday.

Named after the queen, the order ceased to be used following her banishment the next year. It was awarded to members of the royal family and close associates, including followers of the queen and her lover Johann Friedrich Struensee.

Eleven of the twelve recipients received it on the day of its creation, with Louise von Plessen being awarded in her absence while in exile at Celle.