Mine Rescue Decoration
The Mine Rescue Decoration (German: Grubenwehrehrenzeichen) is a state award of the Republic of Austria, established on February 24, 1954 by the National Council. The award is presented by the Federal Ministry of Trade and Reconstruction, currently known as the Ministry of Digital and Economic Affairs, to both members and non-members of the mine rescue services. Criteria. The Mine Rescue Decoration can be awarded for the following reasons: Wear of the Mine Rescue Decoration is protected under Austrian federal law, and the unauthorised wear of any component of the award by a non-awardee is punishable  with a fine, which was originally set at 300 schillings. Insignia. In addition to the full-sized medal, awardees also receive a certificate, miniature medal, ribbon bar, lapel pin, and rosette. The ribbon is made up of two thick stripes of black and green, bordered by thin stripes of white and red. On the full-sized medal, the ribbon is arranged as an , while on the miniature medals, it is arranged as a drape. The medal is a 40 mm bronze circular medallion, featuring on the obverse a Maltese cross with outgoing rays, framed by a laurel wreath, and superimposed  by a crossed hammer and pick, the traditional symbol of miners. On the reverse is the Austrian Coat of Arms, with the inscription "Für Verdienste im Grubenrettungsdienst" (English:For merits in mine rescue service).