History

On May 1, 1939, the German Red Cross Awards were replaced by the German Social Welfare Decoration, which recognized not only Red Cross work, but the entire social welfare field. This included care of the sick and wounded, caring for German citizens in foreign countries, participation in the winter relief organization, and upholding ancestral German traditions.

The Special Class is identical to the former Red Cross Grand Cross, except the latter features a different type of eagle and swastika in the centre of the medal.

The I Class Cross has a surmounting suspension with oak leaves and is worn on a neck ribbon.

The I Class Cross with diamonds was a special presentation piece, and was awarded only once to Madame Antonescu.