History

Established by King Haakon VII, this medal was initially with an oak leaf and it was not until 2010 when King Harald V declared the Medal of St. Olav with an Oak Leaf, as its own decoration entirely (See NOR107 in Medals & Decorations for more information).

At it’s initial institution this Medal was conferred as a medal of merit to recognize efforts in WWII, this was expanded on Februrary 6, 1942, to recognize personal effort. The statutes of this Medal were amended once again on December 10, 2010, and is now conferred to Norwegians or foreigners, military and civilian personnel who have rendered distinguishing services through their brave and outstanding ability to lead during wartime or in personal effort.

This Medal may be awarded posthumously.