Croatian Medal for Bravery

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Croatian Medal for Bravery in Gold.jpg

The Croatian Medal for Bravery (German: Kroatische Tapferkeitsauszeichnung), officially Medal of Poglavnik Ante Pavelić for Bravery (Croatian: Kolajna poglavnika Ante Pavelića za hrabrost), was a state war decoration of the Independent State of Croatia (NDH). The medal was donated by the state leader Ante Pavelić on 27 December 1941 as a visible sign of personal bravery in battle and in recognition of acts of gallantry during WWII. It was awarded to Croatian military personnel and foreign allied military personnel. The small silver medal was awarded to next of kin of Officers who were killed () during the conflict.

History

War-dated document signed in Zagreb, 11 January 1945, in Croatian, decree by which Pavelic awards seven German officers of the Wehrmacht the Medal of Poglavnik Ante Pavelic for Bravery for their "very brave behavior during the struggle against the rebels/partisans", signed by Pavelic as head of state in dark ink "Ante Pavelic", countersigned by Nikola Steinfel.
Poglavnik of Croatia has awarded with this medal officers, NCOs and soldiers of Croatian Armed Forces who showed personal bravery in combat. It was possible that medal be awarded to members of foreign armed forces, and those members were needed to be involved in combat along with Croatian soldiers. Medal for bravery had four grades: Golden medal[1] for bravery was worn on unusual created ribbon which hung from the second upper button. Holder of the golden medal for bravery had right on title "knight" ("Vitez"). Golden medal for bravery was awarded to only seven persons and five of them was awarded posthumous. Also, two golden medals for bravery were awarded to flags of two Croatian units. Great silver medal for bravery was worn on triangle ribbon which hung on the left chest. Croatian citizens, which have been awarded with great silver or golden bravery medal had monthly allowance. There was also small silver medal and bronze medal of Poglavnik Ante Pavelić for bravery which were massively awarded. Creator of this medal is famous Croatian sculptor Ivo Kerdić.[2]

Known German recipients (selection)

See also

External links

References

  1. It is believed only for a short time in 1941 a few medals were struck in solid Gold, while later medals were struck in silver gilt.
  2. About: Medal of Poglavnik Ante Pavelić for Bravery