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Eastern Medal

Eastern Medal
  • Country of origin : Germany
  • Material : Metal
  • Date : 26 May 1942
  • Intended for: Soldiers

The Eastern Front Medal (Ostmedaille) was a German military decoration awarded to German and Axis soldiers who served on the Eastern Front during WW2. It was instituted on May 26, 1942, by Adolf Hitler and was awarded to all Wehrmacht and Waffen-SS personnel who served in the East and met certain criteria.

The Eastern Medal was awarded between within the period from 15 November 1941 to 15 April 1942, to any member of the Wehrmacht and Waffen-SS in recognition of experience in the struggle against the Bolshevik enemy and the Russian winter." The medal could be also be awarded posthumously.

The medal was also awarded to civilians who were actively involved in the war effort on the Eastern Front, such as war correspondents, members of the NSDAP, and other organizations.

The Eastern Medal was designed by SS-Unterscharführer Ernst Krauit. Measuring 36 mm in diameter, of (generally) zinc construction, the medal was given a gun-metal coloured coating. The concave obverse side features a national socialist eagle grasping a swastika with laurel behind. The reverse features the text in capital letters: "Winterschlacht im osten 1941/42" (Winter Battle in the East 1941-42) featuring a crossed sword and branch below the text. A helmet and stick grenade below the medal loop as well as outer ring were finished in a polished silver effect.

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!