- Time Period: World War II
- Institution: 1 May 1982
- Country: Norway
The War Medal (or Krigsmedaljen in Norwegian) is a Norwegian military decoration initially established to honor service during World War II, and later expanded to recognize meritorious service in wartime.
The Norwegian War Medal was instituted by King Haakon VII of Norway through a Royal Decree on May 23, 1941, with an additional decree on November 13, 1942. It is awarded to both Norwegian and foreign military personnel who have demonstrated meritorious participation in World War II on behalf of Norway. The medal can also be awarded posthumously to Norwegian and foreign individuals who served in the Norwegian forces or merchant marine and died for the Norwegian Resistance.
The War Medal Criteria
Although distribution of the medal ceased in 1951, a Royal Decree in 1979 reinstated it to honor Norwegian and foreign seamen who served on Norwegian Shipping and Trade Mission (Nortraship) vessels for at least 18 months, or on Royal Norwegian Navy vessels during World War II.
The criteria were revised again in 2012, allowing the medal to be awarded to Norwegians for distinguished wartime service to Norway. Notably, it has been awarded for efforts in the conflict against ISIL.
The War Medal Design
The obverse side of the medal showcases a portrait of King Haakon VII of Norway, along with his name and motto, “Alt for Norge” (All for Norway).
The reverse side features a wreath encircling the inscription “Krigsmedalje” (War Medal) and the king’s monogram.
Made of bronze, the medal is accompanied by a ribbon in the colors of the Royal Standard: red and yellow. Recipients who earn the medal multiple times may attach up to three stars to the ribbon. Each medal is issued with a certificate signed by the king. The initial production of the medal was handled by Spink & Son in London.
