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Medals & Awards
Janina received various medals and awards over the course of several decades for her efforts in the war. These medals were given to her by the Polish Army, the Armia Krajowa, the Polish government on exile in the United Kingdom, the Polish government, and the city of Warsaw. The awards and medals' names and descriptions can be found below.
Note: Descriptions are taken from the linked sources
Warsaw Uprising Cross (Warszawski Krzyz Powstanczy)
It was awarded to the soldiers and citizens, that took direct part in the Warsaw uprising 1944. The Cross could be awarded to both the citizens of Poland and to foreign citizens, who contributed by their actions in the uprising.
The Cross can also be entrusted to the relatives of participant in the uprising as memory, when the participant has died. (Traces of War)
Cross of Valour
It is awarded to an individual who "has demonstrated deeds of valour and courage on the field of battle." It may be awarded to the same person up to four times. The medal is given only in wartime or shortly after. (Wikipedia)
Order of Polonia Restituta
It is conferred on both military and civilians as well as on foreigners for outstanding achievements in the fields of education, science, sport, culture, art, economics, national defense, social work, civil service, or for furthering good relations between countries. (Wikipedia)
Home Army Cross (Armia Krajowa Cross)
The decoration was awarded to soldiers of the Home Army (Armia Krajowa) and of its predecessor organizations. The award was supported by the Polish government in exile in London and was not recognized by the People’s Republic of Poland, which viewed members of the mostly anti-communist Armia Krajowa as enemies of the state. After the fall of communism, in 1992 it was recognized by the government of Poland and was awarded by the president of Poland until 8 May 1999. (Identify Medals)
Victory and Freedom Medal
Conferred on civilians and military who participated in any way in the fight against nazi Germany in or outside the territory of Poland. (Medals.pl)
DESCRIPTION COMING SOON
Medal for Warsaw (Medal Za Warszawe)
The medal was to be awarded to all soldiers and citizens that took part in the defence of Warsaw during September 1939, all participants in Warsaw underground and in the uprising in 1944 and those who took part in the release of the city from the Fascist-German aggressors during January 1945. Also foreign citizens could be awarded. (Traces of War)
Army Medal for War of 1939-1945 (Medal Wojska za Wojne)
The medal was created in 1945 by the Polish government in Exile (in London) to reward members of the Polish ground forces for service during World War II. The eligibility criteria were: six months of operational service during World War II, or 12 months in a non-operational role. (Military History Fandom)
DESCRIPTION COMING SOON
Janina was awarded with the title of Lieutenant in 2001 by the President of Poland
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