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War Merit Cross

War Merit Cross
  • Country of origin : Germany
  • Material : Metal
  • Date : October 18, 1939
  • Intended for: Soldiers

The War Merit Cross (Kriegsverdienstkreuz) was a military decoration of Nazi Germany, awarded for various levels of merit in the military and civilian sectors during World War II. The cross was established on October 18, 1939, by Adolf Hitler as a replacement for the non-combatant version of the Iron Cross.

The War Merit Cross came in two classes:

  • The War Merit Cross 2nd Class (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse)
  • The War Merit Cross 1st Class (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse)

The 2nd Class was a bronze cross with crossed swords in the center, while the 1st Class was a silver cross with swords and laurel leaves. The latter was also worn with a ribbon around the neck.

The War Merit Cross was awarded to military personnel and civilians who made significant contributions to the war effort, including the production of armaments, the improvement of logistics, and other services. It was also awarded to foreigners who aided the German war effort.

The War Merit Cross was often criticized as being a relatively low-level decoration, as it was awarded for non-combat activities, and many high-ranking Nazi officials received it for political loyalty rather than for actual merit. Nonetheless, it remained an important decoration during World War II, and many thousands of them were awarded to German and non-German personnel throughout the conflict.

Most of the items are from my personal collection.
While some major documents are nearly impossible to acquire, every piece on display carries a unique story from the Second World War. That deep connection to history inspired me to start building this small collection, parts of which you see here today.

I believe it’s vital to preserve these pieces of the past, not just as artifacts, but as reminders for future generations. History shouldn’t be forgotten, and with your help, it won’t be.
Do you have a WW2 item?
Consider donating it to my project, where it can be preserved, appreciated, and help tell the story of that important time in history. Even the smallest item can make a big difference.
Yes I want to help!