Mannerheim Cross

The Mannerheim Cross of the Cross of Liberty (Mannerheim-risti / Mannerheimkorset) is a Finnish military decoration introduced after the Winter War and named after Marshal Mannerheim. The award was introduced into the Order of the Cross of Liberty and a bearer of the cross is called a Knight of the Mannerheim Cross. While the 1st class is the 5th and the 2nd class the 9th in the order of precedence of Finnish awards, the Mannerheim Cross 2nd class has become the most distinguished military award in Finland.

Related Topics:
Finnish - Winter War - Marshal Mannerheim - Order of the Cross of Liberty

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The Second Class of the award was instituted as the universal award for extraordinary bravery, for the achievement of extraordinaryly important objectives by combat, or for especially well conducted operations. The Cross could be awarded to any soldier of the Finnish Defence Forces, regardless of rank. The lack of a rank requirement, the emphasis on individual bravery, and the prize of 50,000 FIM to each recipient attracted considerable public attention to the award during the war. In 1942, the sum was equivalent of a lieutenant's annual salary. As the Mannerheim Cross was awarded most often in the 2nd class, this is usually meant when referring to the Mannerheim Cross.

Related Topics:
FIM - 1942 - Lieutenant

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No special requirements differing from the Mannerheim Cross 2nd class were laid out for the Mannerheim Cross 1st class. It has been awarded only twice, to the Commander-in-Chief, Marshal C.G.E. Mannerheim and general Erik Heinrichs.

Related Topics:
C.G.E. Mannerheim - Erik Heinrichs

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Mannerheim Cross Second Class has been awarded to 191 persons, all during World War II. Four persons have been awarded it twice. De jure, the decoration is still active and can be awarded to any Finnish soldier, although it is highly unlikely that this would be done during peacetime or even in a minor conflict. (Decree 550/1946 on the Order of the Cross of Liberty)

Related Topics:
World War II - De jure

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Since the presidency of Martti Ahtisaari, all surviving recipients of Mannerheim Cross have been invited to the Independence Day Reception, hosted by the president. By tradition they are also the first guests to enter.

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