The Polish Red Cross Medal was awarded to members of the Polish Red Cross (military & civilian) for meritorious service within the organization, to include outside organizations in recognition of contributions to the Polish Red Cross. The medal is permitted for wear on military uniforms and can be awarded posthumously. Instituted during the Polish Second Republic (pre-WW2 [1918-1939]) and continued during the Polish People's Republic (WW2 through the Fall of the Berlin Wall [1939-1989]). It was reinstated during the Third Polish Republic (Collapse of the communist regime [1989 to present]). Original Issue - Full Size Medal - Bronze Recipient Eligibility for Award: IV Class: For 3 years of service in the organization III Class: After 5 years in the IV Class II Class: After 6 years in the III Class I Class: After 7 years in the II Class Multiple versions of the Red Cross Medal exist in design, size, and inscription. The first medals awarded during the Second Polish Republic differed in design across grades, but became uniform in 1937. Medals awarded during the Polish People’s Republic feature an uncrowned eagle, while those currently awarded (since 1989), the Third Polish Republic feature a crowned eagle. Polish Republics: Second Republic (1918-1939) Polish People's Republic (1939-1989); Government of the Republic of Poland in exile Third Republic (1989-). Description: Obverse: Bronze, including Eagle, with red enameled cross Reverse: PCK Initials (Polski Czerwony Krzyż) meaning Polish Red Cross. Note: Multiple in stock...Shipped item may not be exactly as appears in the photos - may contain slight variation in color/standard age wear.
