History

The Medal of Merit for National Defence was established by the Parliament of the Polish People's Republic in 1966 and was retained by the Republic of Poland following the collapse of the communist regime in 1989. It is currently awarded by the Ministry of Defence to Polish military personnel and civilians for meritorious actions and contributions to the Polish Armed Forces and national defence. It may also be awarded to Polish military units, organisations, businesses, and institutions.

Recipients are always awarded the III Class Medal and promotion to a higher grade may only be made after time spent the lower grade. Promotion from the III Class to the II Class may be made after 3 years, and promotion from the II Class to the I Class may be made after 5 years.

There are two versions of the I Class Medal that differ in inscription and engraving based on the time period in which they were awarded. The first was awarded during the Polish People's Republic and features a reverse inscription that translates to "Ministry of National Defence, Polish People’s Republic." The second has been awarded since 1991 and features a reverse inscription that translates to "Polish Army." Both versions feature an obverse inscription that translates to "For Meritorious Service to National Defence."

The current version is listed in the Medals & Decorations of the Third Polish Republic (1989-).