Pro Patria Medal (No. 54) with Cunene, Silver Service clasp and Mention in Despatches Emblem EF

On 9 October 1976 the Pro Patria Medal was awarded for the first time at a parade officiated by President N Diederichs. The first 48 medals were awarded to the next of kin of the first 48 servicemen of the South African Defence Force who died between 23 June 1974 and 7 August 1976 in an operational area.

Ordinarily, SADF medals of this period were awarded in numerical order, with the first ten or so, going to museums or units for public display. By comparing a known Pro Patria Medal awarded to one of the 48, it would appear that number 54 could well have been awarded to one of the first 48 recipients though, this could not be confirmed.

Further,  I am informed that when this medal was purchased, the vendor had a statue similar to those given to the next of kin of the first 48, but that he was not willing to part with the statue.

Due to time constraints only limited information can be supplied in the listing. However, have a look at the description and photograph/s above and if in doubt, please ask.

MEDAL GRADING SYSTEM