Physical Description

A rectangular pebbled clasp with a raised smooth double edge, constructed of bronze gilt. The obverse features the monogram ‘G.H.Z.S.M.’ (Georg Herzog zu Sachsen-Meiningen). The reverse features a horizontal pinback. On a ribbon bar.

History

The Military Long Service Decoration was originally instituted on August 31, 1913 by Duke Bernhard II. The decoration was conferred upon military personnel who rendered numerous years of irreproachable service. A Cross for 25 Years was introduced for officers and a series of three bars were introduced for non-commissioned officers, enlisted ranks, and members of the Gendarmerie.

The Type I decorations were no longer awarded after Saxe-Meiningen joined the North-German Confederation in 1867. The Type II decorations were introduced in 1866 by Duke Georg and on January 10, 1867, they were conferred upon the non-commissioned officers of the 6th Thuringian Infantry Regiment No. 95. They were also awarded to the members of the Saxe-Meiningen field police.

Unlike the Type I awards, which were awarded to officers, non-commissioned officers, and enlisted ranks for 25, 24, 16, or 8 years of service, the Type II awards were only awarded to non-commissioned officers and enlisted ranks for 21, 15, or 9 years of service.