History

This Decoration was established by Miklos Horthy to reward members of the Hungarian Red Cross for meritorious service within public health and charity.

Originally, the Decoration was composed of three grades, the Merit Cross, Breast Star, and Medal of Merit.

In the 1930s, the Silver Medal and Bronze Medal grades were added to the Decoration.

Additionally, in 1939, the Decoration was divided into a civil division and a military division. Wherein the military division awards were awarded to health services rendered during wartime, and they feature a wreath on the lower cross arm. The civil division awards do not have a wreath.

When the medals were awarded to women they were worn on a bow ribbon.