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.
