History

The Decoration for Distinguished Military Pilots was established by the Republic of Poland in 1999 as a replacement for the Title of Meritorious Military Pilot that was awarded in the Polish People’s Republic. It was later amended in 2010 and is currently awarded by the Minister of National Defence to pilots in the Polish Armed Forces in recognition of distinguished service, including contributions to the training and combat readiness of troops and acts of bravery during combat flights.

The Decoration may be awarded to the same recipient up to three times. The number of awards is denoted on the obverse with an additional inscription that can be translated to "Distinguished Military Pilot."