Belgian War Volunteer Combatant Medal 1940–1945 (Medaille v.d. Strijdende Oorlogsvrijwilliger)

Original Belgian War Volunteer Combatant Medal (Médaille du Volontaire de Guerre Combattant / Medaille van de Strijdende Oorlogsvrijwilliger) with “Pugnator” Clasp. The War Volunteer Combatant Medal is a Belgian decoration established by Royal Decree on 8 April 1952, awarded to Belgian and foreign nationals who voluntarily enlisted in the Belgian Armed Forces for the duration of the war. This could be awarded to Korean War Volunteers but also retroactively to both 1st and/or the 2nd World War veterans. The medal could also be awarded posthumously, recognizing those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Award Criteria The medal was granted to: Belgian or foreign individuals who voluntarily enlisted Personnel who committed to serve for the duration of the war (Korea, 1914-1918 and 1940–1945) Combatants who actively participated in wartime operations This version specifically recognizes combatant volunteers, distinguishing it from the general War Volunteer Medal. Distinction: “Pugnator” Bar The Combatant version is identical to the standard War Volunteer Medal but includes: A 4 mm bronze and/or silver bar on the ribbon Inscribed with “Pugnator” (Latin for “fighter” or “combatant”) This device clearly identifies the recipient as a front-line combat volunteer. Design & Characteristics Material: Patinated bronze Diameter: approx. 37 mm Obverse: Classical Belgian medal design (typically featuring national symbolism) Reverse: Central lion rampant Circular Latin inscription: “VOLUNTARIIS” (To the volunteers) Suspension: Ring passing through a lateral barrel suspension Ribbon Width: approx. 38 mm Composed of 15 narrow longitudinal stripes alternating: Red and blue With wider blue edge stripes (4 mm) Condition: As seen in the images. A highly collectible Belgian WWII medal, especially valued for its “Pugnator” combat distinction, making it more desirable among volunteer service decorations.