Independence Medal

The Independence Medal is an official state decoration established to be awarded to military and civilian individuals who rendered distinguished service during the Turkish War of Independence, as well as to the families of those who died as martyrs during the National Struggle. It is the only medal awarded during the founding process of the Republic of Türkiye and is regulated by a special law.

Independence Medal (AA)

Reason and Scope of Award

The Independence Medal was established by the Independence Medal Law dated 4 April 1921 and numbered 66. According to this law, the medal was awarded to:

• Commanders, officers, soldiers, and national heroes who actively served on the front lines or in suppressing internal rebellions,
• Individuals who made significant contributions to the National Struggle from behind the front lines,
• The immediate families or eldest children of those who died as martyrs during the National Struggle,
• Members of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye (TBMM),
• And individuals designated by decision of the Grand National Assembly.

Representative Presentation of the Independence Medal (Generated by Artificial Intelligence.)

Variants and Ribbon Colors

The Independence Medal has the same metallic design but is classified by different ribbon colors according to the reason for award:

• Red Ribbon Medal: Awarded to soldiers and civilians who fought directly on the front lines or provided major support to the National Struggle.
• Green Ribbon Medal: Awarded to members of the Grand National Assembly during the National Struggle.
• Red-Green Ribbon Medal: Awarded to members of parliament who fought directly on the front lines or died as martyrs.
• White Ribbon Medal: Awarded to individuals who made significant contributions from behind the front lines. (This white ribbon practice was later abolished by Law No. 869 and replaced with the red ribbon.)

Independence Medal Ribbon Colors – (AA)

Design and Features

The Independence Medal is made of bright yellow brass, measuring 30×40 mm in diameter and weighing 15.55 grams.

Obverse

Reverse

Ceremony and Usage Protocol

The medal was awarded:

• In the presence of the Grand National Assembly by the Speaker of the Assembly,
• In the provinces, by the highest military commander and civil administrator during a formal ceremony.
• It is always worn on the right chest; in civilian attire, it may be worn as a badge in various colors.

According to Law No. 3183 dated 14 February 1926, abroad the medal may only be worn with a frock coat or uniform, and in civilian dress only the badge may be worn.

Special Conditions and Provisions

• Individuals deprived of civil rights or convicted of murder lose the right to wear or possess the medal.
• The medal is inherited by heirs as a keepsake.
• By Law No. 3579 dated 30 January 1929, the Independence Medal was also authorized for award to regimental standards that participated in the National Struggle.

Relevant Legislation

• Independence Medal Law (4 April 1921, Law No: 66)
• Law No. 3579 (30 January 1929)
• Law No. 3183 (14 February 1926)