The German’s used what is called the “IRON CROSS” The tradition of the Iron Cross (which was Cross Pattée in shape) had an honourable beginning, when it was instituted as a Prussian decoration, in March 1813, by King Friedrich Wilheim III during the War of Liberation against Napoleon. It was awarded without regard for nationality or social class to combatants for acts of heroism, bravery or leadership skills.

It was reintroduced in 1870 for the Franco-Prussian War, and re-introduced again on 5th August 1914, by Wilhelm II, Emperor of Germany and the King of Prussia for the Great War of 1914-1918, to decorate those who showed particular bravery or valour. During this war Germany awarded over five million of these medals to members of the armed forces: Grand Cross (5), First Class (288,000) and Second Class (5,200,000).

The defeat of Germany in that war did not diminish military pride, and the Iron Cross awarded for recognised valour continued to be a symbol of prestige in the inter-war years. In the opening hours of World War II, Hitler re-introduced the Iron Cross on the 1st September 1939, to invoke the imagery of the gallant Prussian warriors, the great victories of the Bismark era, and the brave soldiers of World War I. On the reverse side of the Nazi Iron Cross was the date 1813, recalling the former Cross of a nobler era. Superimposed on the centre of the Cross re-introduced by Hitler was the Nazi swastika. Through the evil purposes which unravelled as Hitler continued in power, the Iron Cross became identified with a more sinister purpose. The outlawing of the Iron Cross 1945, and it re-introduction in 1957.

Following the end of the Second World War the Swastika was outlawed and its public display prohibited, this included all military and political awards that included this symbol.