Physical Description

A smooth George’s cross with a raised border, constructed of oxidised bronze. The obverse medallion features a laurel wreath and the crowned monogram ‘WK II’ inside, with the inscription ‘15’ (12 o’clock) ‘IAHRE’ (3 o’clock) ‘DIENST’ (6 o’clock) ‘ZEIT’ (9 o’clock) on the arms (‘15 years of service time’), arranged along the longitudinal edges. The reverse is similar, except that the medallion features the monogram ‘FW’. On a loop for suspension, on a red ribbon with thin dark blue borders.

History

The Military Long Service Cross was founded by the electoral prince and co-regent Friedrich Wilhelm in the name of his father, Elector Wilhelm II.

The cross was conferred upon military personnel, below the rank of sergeant, who rendered 15 years of meritorious service. This included members of the Schweizer-Leibgarde, the Gendarmerie, and army administration staff. It also included garrison troop personnel and members of the Invalids Corps. Members of the reserves were not eligible to receive the award.

Time in war counted for double.

The cross was awarded between 1835 and 1849.