History

The Mine Rescue Service Decoration was instituted on November 16th, 1936, and it was awarded for all services in German mines, relating to fire-fighting, rescue, and salvage work. The Decoration was conferred upon members of the Mine Rescue Service who risked their lives to perform outstanding rescue work, individuals who voluntarily risked their own lives to save others, individuals who aided the organization and development of the Mine Rescue Service, and all members of the Mine Rescue Service who completed 15 years of service. If an individual was injured in the course of duty, they could receive the Medal for less than 15 years of service.

The original name of the award is Reichsgrubenwehr-Ehrenzeichen. The obverse inscription translates to, "For Merit in Mine Rescue Services."