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The Order of the Patriotic War (USSR)

Time Period: Second World War
Year of Institution: 20 May 1942
Country: Russia & USSR

The Order of the Patriotic War (or Орден Отечественной войны in Russian) is a Soviet military decoration established on 20 May 1942 and awarded for heroic deeds during WW2 or the German-Soviet War to all soldiers in the Soviet armed forces, security troops, as well as to partisans.

This was the first Soviet order established during the war, and the first Soviet order divided into classes. Deeds are awarded with the order (shooting down three aircraft as a fighter pilot, destroying two heavy or three medium or four light tanks, capturing a warship, repairing an aircraft under fire after landing on a hostile territory, etc) were awarded with the first class.

The medal was also given to some allied troops and commanders, including western allies. Altogether, over 324,903 of the 1st class and 951,652 of the 2nd class were issued during the war.

The Order of the Patriotic War Classes

The Order of the Patriotic War had two classes:

First Class: Awarded for acts of bravery and courage displayed in combat against the enemy. It was typically bestowed upon soldiers, sailors, and airmen who demonstrated exceptional valor or leadership on the battlefield. Recipients of the First Class were often recognized for their direct involvement in significant military operations, such as leading successful assaults, repelling enemy attacks, or capturing strategic objectives.
Second Class: Awarded for various contributions to the war effort, including acts of bravery, distinguished service, or significant achievements in support of the Soviet war machine. While the criteria for the Second Class were less stringent than those for the First Class, recipients were still required to demonstrate commendable conduct and dedication to the defense of the Soviet Union. This class of the order was often bestowed upon individuals who displayed courage under fire, rendered valuable assistance to their comrades, or made significant sacrifices for the cause of victory.

The Order of the Patriotic War Medal Design

The Order of the Patriotic War medal features a red enamel five-pointed star, made of silver, with straight rays in the background, and crossed sabre and a Mosin rifle. The rays in the background are golden for the First Class and silver for the Second Class.

The central disc has a golden hammer and sickle on a red enamel background, surrounded by a white enamel ring with the words ОТЕЧЕСТВЕННАЯ ВОЙНА (“Patriotic War”). Anniversary orders of 1985 were made cheaper, as a single silver piece, gold-plated in the 1st class.

The ribbon varies slightly depending on the class: