History

This Order was established by the Estonian Red Cross Society in 1920. It was recognized as a national award in the Decorations Act of 1936. The Order was suspended during the Soviet occupation, but was later renewed in 1994 after the restoration of Estonian independence.

The Order is conferred in recognition of humanitarian service in the fields of public health and social services, as well as personal devotion to saving lives. It may also be awarded posthumously.

The Order was awarded in a single grade, a silver medal, from 1920-1925. From 1925-1936 it was awarded in 5 grades, and when it was declared a national award in 1936, an additional three medal grades were added. It is presently awarded in six grades.

The reverse inscription translates to “Charity in Wartime.”