History

The National Defence Medal (Medalha da Defesa Nacional) was founded by the Portuguese government on December 27, 2002. It is rewarded to military personnel and civilians, both Portuguese and foreign, in recognition of exceptional contributions to the efficiency and prestige of the mission of the Portuguese Ministry of National Defence.

This Medal was founded as the last of the five private Medals established by the Ministry of National Defence; these are the Cross of St. George, Medal Navy Cross, Medal of D. Afonso Henriques - Merit Army - and Aeronautical Merit medal. Each of these is eleventh in order of precedence.

Since its inception, the Medal consists of four classes normally conferred based on the recipient rank, i.e., I, II, III, and IV Classes. Presumably, all the grades are awarded with a clasp features the Portuguese coat of arms.

The III Class Medal is awarded to Officers and Sergeant Majors.

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