Can a medal tell a story? Here at the Pro Patria monument, it tells many. The Pro Patria Medal itself isn’t the monument. But it represents the stories enshrined here. This monument stands in honor of the South African Defence Force members who served in designated operational areas or engaged in combat. The Pro Patria Medal was instituted in 1974 by the State President. It was awarded for acts of bravery and service in the defense of the Republic. It was also awarded for actions taken to prevent or suppress terrorism.
The Pro Patria Medal could be awarded to any serving member, regardless of rank. To earn this medal, one had to experience combat, participate in a Ministry of Defence sanctioned operation, or serve a specific duration in a designated operational area. This could be 55 continuous days or 90 non-continuous days. The monument embodies the spirit of the medal. It commemorates the dedication and sacrifice of those who served.
The Pro Patria Medal has a unique design. It’s an octagonal, gilded bronze medallion. It features a golden aloe emblem at its center. The pre-1994 South African Coat of Arms graces the reverse. The ribbon is equally distinctive, a sequence of orange, white, and dark blue stripes. There were even different versions of the medal over the years. Early versions had separate ribbon suspenders. Later, these were integrated into the medal’s design. Some omitted the gilding, while others integrated the roundel into the medal itself.
The Cunene clasp was a special distinction awarded to those who served in Angola during Operation Savannah in 1975 and 1976. The Pro Patria monument reminds us of their service. A miniature Coat of Arms was another significant addition to the medal. It was awarded to those mentioned in dispatches during the 1966-1989 Border War, recognizing exceptional conduct and devotion to duty. The Pro Patria monument stands as a testament to their bravery. The Pro Patria Medal was discontinued in 2003. Yet the Pro Patria monument continues to tell the stories of those who served. It ensures that their dedication and sacrifice are never forgotten.