History

The Medal for Participation in the 1939 War of Defence was established by the Polish People's Republic in 1981 and was administered by the Council of State. It was subsequently awarded by the Republic of Poland before it was officially discontinued in 1999.

The Medal was awarded to Polish military personnel and civilians who participated in the defensive campaigns in Poland at the outbreak of the Second World War. It was also awarded to foreigners who fought alongside Polish forces and posthumously to those who died in combat.

The Silver Medal features a reverse inscription that translates to "For Participation in the War of Defense, Fatherland." There may be additional versions that differ in size.