Order of Orange Nassau

The Order of Orange-Nassau is a military and civil order of the Netherlands which was first created in 1890 by the Queen Regent Emma of the Netherlands, acting on behalf of her under-age daughter Queen Wilhelmina.

Related Topics:
Order - Netherlands - 1890 - Queen Regent - Emma of the Netherlands - Queen Wilhelmina

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The Order of Orange-Nassau has two divisions, civil and military, the former denoted by a wreath of laurel on the badges, and the latter by crossed swords on both the badges and the stars. The Order of Orange-Nassau can therefore be considered the Dutch equivalent of the Order of the British Empire.

Related Topics:
Laurel - Order of the British Empire

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During World War II, the Order of Orange-Nassau was bestowed to both members of the Netherlands military and members of foreign services who had helped liberate the Netherlands from Nazi Germany occupation. In the modern age, the Orange-Nassau is still the most active military and civil decoration of the Netherlands, and ranks after the Order of the Dutch Lion. The Order is typically awarded each year on the Queen's official birthday (April 30th) with hundreds of appointments to the Order made public. The Order is also used to honour foreign princes, ministers, dignitaries and diplomats.

Related Topics:
World War II - Nazi Germany - Order of the Dutch Lion - April 30

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The King of the Netherlands is the Grand Master of the Order of Orange-Nassau. In addition to this special grade, the Order of Orange-Nassau is issued in six classes. There is also an Orange-Nassau Medal which is issued in the grades of gold, silver, and bronze.

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