Soviet Orders and Medals of the
Winter War Era
(1938-1940)

 

Early Soviet Awards

The years prior to the German invasion were full of conflict in the regions surrounding the Soviet Union from Japan to Finland.  Not surprisingly, several new medals were introduced during this time.  Some of these can be seen here.  Documentation, when available, will be pictured along with the medals themselves.

 

New Orders and Medals

Older Orders and Medals

 

 

Medal for Combat Service

Established - October 17, 1938
Composition - Silver and Enamel
Number Awarded - 67,000

The Medal for Combat Service was awarded for exceptional conduct in battle resulting in the success of the unit, for personal courage in the defense of the borders of the Soviet Union, for excellence in military/political training, and for mastering new combat techniques/technology.

It could be awarded to personnel of all ranks who served in the Army, Navy, Border Guards, and NKVD.  This medal could be awarded more than once and could be bestowed on people who were not citizens of the Soviet Union.

The first of these medals were awarded to N. Gulyayev and B. Grigoryev on October 19, 1938 for their heroism in the battles of Lake Khasan in July and August of that year.

Ribbon for the Medal for Combat Service

The ribbon for the Order was established in 1955.  Prior to this time, the USSR did not use ribbon bars.

 

 

Medal for Outstanding Achievements in Labor

Established - December 27, 1938
Composition - Silver and Enamel
Number Awarded - 2,300,000

The Medal for Outstanding Achievements in Labor (also called the Medal of Labor Heroism)  was awarded to those who heroically dedicated themselves to the building of socialist society, for selfless work and excellent labor achievements.  This medal can be bestowed on people who are not citizens of the Soviet Union.  This medal ranks above the Labor Distinction Medal. 

The first recipients of the Medal for Outstanding Achievements in Labor were a group of 14 gas workers of the Podzemgaz Association for the development of a technique for the underground gassification of coal.

Ribon for Outstanding Achievements in Labor Medal

The ribbon for the Order was established in 1955.  Prior to this time, the USSR did not use ribbon bars.

 

 

Labor Distinction Medal

Established - December 27, 1938
Composition - Silver and Enamel
Number Awarded - 3,000,000

The Labor Distinction Medal was also awarded for selfless work and excellent labor achievements.  Workers who distinguished themselves by high production rates, and for development of science, manufacturing, and culture.  It ranks below the Outstanding Achievements in Labor Medal.  This medal could be bestowed on people who were not citizens of the Soviet Union.

The first group to be awarded with this medal were the members of the Alexandrov Song and Dance Ensemble of the Soviet Army.

Ribbon for Labor Distinction Medal

The ribbon for the Order was established in 1955.  Prior to this time, the USSR did not use ribbon bars.

(Coming Soon!!)

 

 

Earlier Period Medals
Back to the
Winter War Era
Later Period Medals