Awards and decorations of the German Armed Forces
The Awards and decorations of the German Armed Forces are decorations awarded by the German Bundeswehr, the German government, and other organizations to the German military and allied forces. Modern era German military awards have been presented since the establishment of the Federal Republic of Germany in 1949.
Johannes Steinhoff wearing several denazified decorations from the Second World War.
Medal of Merit (Order of Merit)
Image: NATO Bandschnalle
Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany
The Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany is the only federal decoration of Germany. It is awarded for special achievements in political, economic, cultural, intellectual or honorary fields. It was created by the first President of the Federal Republic of Germany, Theodor Heuss, on 7 September 1951. Colloquially, the decorations of the different classes of the Order are also known as the Federal Cross of Merit.
Special Class of the Grand Cross (reserved for heads of state)
Insignia of the Grand Cross special class
Insignia of the Grand Cross 1st class
Badge and riband of the class "Grand Cross" (without showing the star)
