My gt-gt-grandfather fought in the 1830 Uprising against the Russians and was awarded the Militari Virtuti. I have inherited this medal, which was the 4th class (Gold) awarded to officers. He was a surgeon and major. Like so many of the officer class he emigrated after the defeat and the medal was awarded in France by General Rybinski. It was made by the Parisian firm Kretly. A portrait of my ancestor shows him wearing it. Professor Wesolowski in USA has the details of the award (date, Regiment etc). I am proud of my Polish ancestor.
La orden del Quetzal nació en 1935 como una distinción civica-militar sin ningun grado. En 1936 se establecen tres grados: Gran Cruz, Gran Oficial y Oficial. En 1941 nace el grado Comendador; y en 1951 los grados queda asi: Gran Collar (su máximo grado) Gran Cruz, Gran Oficial, Comendador, Oficial y Caballero. En la actualidad la Orden del Quetzal se rige bajo el Decreto 84-73 y carece de un reglamento.
