History

The Mine Rescue Service Decoration, Type III was established by Adolf Hitler on January 30, 1938. The original name is Grubenwehr-Ehrenzeichen.

This decoration replaced the Mine Rescue Service Decoration, Type II. The reasons for awarding remained the same: 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.