Carl Eduard War Cross Explained

Carl Edward War Cross
Carl-Eduard-Kriegskreuz
Type:Military decoration
Awarded For:Bravery and military merit
Campaign:World War I
Established:19 July 1916
Total Awarded:97

The Carl Eduard War Cross (German: Carl-Eduard-Kriegskreuz) was a military decoration of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha presented during World War I. Established 19 July 1916, by Charles Edward, Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, the cross recognized military merit and bravery in battle, without regard to rank. Awarded only 97 times, it is one of the rarest of World War I German military decorations. Recipients must have already been holders of the Iron Cross, 1st Class and been serving in the 6. Thüringischses Infanterie-Regiment Nr. 95.[1]

Insignia

The Carl Eduard War Cross is in the shape of a Maltese cross, made of silver. On the obverse in the center medallion is the cypher CE surmounted by a ducal crown. The medallion is surrounded by a green enameled laurel wreath superimposed on the arms of the cross. The reverse of the medallion displays the coat of arms of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha surrounded by the words FIDELITER ET CONSTANTER.[1]

Notable recipients

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Saxe-Coburg-Gotha Carl Eduard War Cross | Australian War Memorial . Awm.gov.au . 15 May 2013.