- Time Period: Post-WW2
- Institution: 1952
- Country: South Africa
The Louw Wepener Decoration, denoted by the post-nominal letters LWD, is a military honor established by the Union of South Africa in 1952 to recognize acts of remarkable bravery and heroism displayed by members of the South African Defence Force. However, it was discontinued on July 1, 1975, with the introduction of a new series of decorations and medals.
The Louw Wepener Decoration was granted to individuals of all ranks for displaying remarkable courage or heroism in situations of great peril, primarily outside of combat contexts. It could be accompanied by a Bar for additional acts of bravery. The decoration was established in tribute to Louw Wepener, who lost his life in 1865 while leading his troops in an assault on a Basotho stronghold during the Basuto Wars of 1858 to 1865.
Only seven decorations were conferred, with the first awarded in 1961 and the last in 1974. No bars were ever added to the decoration.
The Louw Wepener Decoration Design
The Louw Wepener Decoration features a 38-millimeter medallion depicting the Thaba Bosigo mountain peak, with two horsemen positioned at its base. Below the riders, the inscription “THABA BOSIGO, 1865” is displayed, while around the circumference, the words “LOUW WEPENER” appear at the top and “DECORATION • DEKORASIE” at the bottom.
On the reverse side, the decoration showcases the pre-1994 South African coat of arms, with the decoration number impressed at the bottom of the rim. Specimens awarded before South Africa’s republic status on May 31, 1961, featured Queen Elizabeth’s royal cipher (E II R) above the coat of arms.
The ribbon measures 1+3⁄8 inches (35 millimeters) in width and is orange, adorned with five white bands spaced 1⁄8 inch (3.2 millimeters) apart.
