Decoration of the Order of Leopold II

The Gold Medal of the Order of Leopold II  is a Belgian distinction for civilians and military personnel who have rendered significant services to the King or the Royal House. It is the highest of the three medals within this order, positioned directly below the rank of Knight.

Characteristics of the Gold Medal

• Design: A metal Maltese cross resting on a field of rays and surmounted by a royal crown.
• Material: Made of gold or gilded metal.
• Ribbon: Blue with a central black stripe.
• Symbolism: The central shield displays the Belgian lion with the motto "Unity makes strength" (in French and Dutch).

Conditions for awarding

The distinction is often awarded based on a specific number of years of service or special achievements:

• Military personnel: Typically awarded after 20 years of meritorious service for non-commissioned officers (or 9 years for flight personnel) and after 25 years for corporals and soldiers. Civil: Awarded to employees in the private or public sector after a long career (often after 25 to 30 years, depending on the specific status).
• Exception: During wartime, the medal could be provided with additional decorations, such as a gold stripe on the ribbon or silver crossed swords for veterans.

Right of wear and Hierarchy

• Method of wearing: The medal is worn by the ribbon on the left breast.
• Rank: Within the Belgian national orders, the Order of Leopold II ranks after the Order of Leopold and the Order of the Crown.
• Restriction: One may wear only one decoration per national order, being that of the highest class received.