History

This Order is the highest national decoration conferred to recognize civil merit. It was founded by the Latvian parliament as an award for outstanding civil merit and to commemorate the founding of Latvia.

The Order was conferred upon all Latvian military personnel who had voluntarily joined the Latvian Armed Forces and participated in battles.

Although this Order was suppressed in 1940 with the occupation of Latvia by the Soviet Union, it was re-established in 1994 after Latvia regained independence.

The Order continues to be awarded to Latvians and foreigners who provide meritorious service to Latvia.