- Time Period: World War II
- Institution: 19 September 1945
- Country: Norway
The Defence Medal 1940–1945 (or Deltagermedaljen 9. april 1940 – 8. mai 1945/Deltakarmedaljen 9. april 1940 – 8. mai 1945 in Norwegian) is awarded to military and civilian personnel who participated in the fight against the German invasion and occupation of Norway from 1940 to 1945.
This medal can be awarded to both Norwegian and foreign citizens. Due to the large number of participants and the challenge of identifying all eligible recipients, the medal may still be awarded.
The Defense Medal 1940–1945 Medal Criteria
The medal was awarded to individuals who met one of the following criteria:
- Participating in the 1940 campaign in Norway for five days or more.
- Serving in the Norwegian armed forces and merchant fleet outside of Norway for four months or more (or less if serving in units involved in the liberation of Norway).
- Participating in the Finnmark campaign (winter 1944-45) for one month or more.
- Allied soldiers who participated in the liberation of Norway and served for one month or more.
- Serving in the resistance forces for four months or more.
As of 2017, the Defence Medal 1940–1945 ranks 23rd among Norwegian decorations.
The Defense Medal 1940–1945 Medal Design
The Defence Medal 1940–1945 is made of bronze. The medal is crafted by the goldsmith firm J. Tostrup in Oslo.
The obverse features the coat of arms with the inscription “9 April 1940 – 8 Mai 1945.”
The reverse displays the royal flag, the national flag, and another flag, all beneath a narrow circle inscribed with “DELTAGER I KAMPEN” (Participant in the struggle), surrounded by a chain.
The medal is suspended from a ribbon in the Norwegian national colors. A rosette may be added to the ribbon for recipients who have distinguished themselves multiple times.
