Silesian Eagle

The Silesian Eagle (German language: Schlesischer Adler; Silesian: Ôrzel Sylezyjski) was a medal awarded to members of the German right-wing paramilitary group Freikorps Oberland for three or six months of service, as well as for fighting during the Silesian Uprisings during the Weimar Republic.

For the coat of arms featuring the eagle, see Coat of arms of Silesia.

Silesian Eagle Schlesischer Adler
Silesian Eagle 1st class
Awarded for	Awarded to Silesian Uprisings members for service against the Poles
Eligibility	Military personnel
Campaign(s)	Silesian Uprisings
Status	Obsolete
Established	19 June 1919

Instituted on the 19 of June 1919 by VI. Armee-Korps Generalleutnant Friedrich von Friedeburg, the award was given in two classes, 2nd class for three months of service and 1st class for 6 months of service. Following the Freikorps' participation at the Battle of Annaberg, it was also awarded with oak leaves, swords, or both. This medal was one of the few Freikorps awards that were allowed to be worn on uniforms after the Wehrmacht banned unofficial medals in 1935. However, the swords and oak leaves were banned, but despite interdictions, many veterans continued wearing them in active military service in Nazi Germany.^[1][2] The crossed swords were added to recognize outstanding bravery in combat, while the oak leaf wreath was added to recognize additional non-combat merit. The badges were designed by Professor Theodor von Gosen. The badge was unofficial, and veterans were required to purchase it for themselves. The obverse inscription translates to “For Silesia,” written in German. ^[3]