Polish ID card for the ‘Virtuti Militari’ Cross – Named to St. Strz. Bernard LICHS

RARE Original WWII Polish certificate card for the ‘Virtuti Militari’ Cross, named to St. Strz. Bernard LICHS. This unique Polish medal certificate awarded to St. Strz. Bernard LICHS. Lichs joined the unit in September 1944. He was a dedicated soldier from the 8th Battalion, 1st Company -1 PAD.

Bernard Lichs was promoted to “st.strz.” on October 21, 1944. He was injured near Breda on November 5, 1944, during a mission that likely contributed
‘The ‘Virtuti Militari’ Cross is Poland’s highest military decoration, established to recognize outstanding bravery in combat. During World War II, many Polish soldiers fled to London, where the Polish government-in-exile continued military operations. The Virtuti Militari was awarded to Polish servicemen, acknowledging their bravery and contributions to the Allied cause. ID cards were issued to officially document these awards, containing details such as the recipient’s name, rank, unit, and the specifics of the decoration. These cards are extremely rare and rarely offered for sale.

The red marking is torn, but this is not a major issue. While it isn’t visible in the photo, it should be noted. (last photo)

The 8th Battalion Rifles was part of the 3rd Brigade and had as nickname “Bloody Shirts”. They earned the name after the bloody fight to close the Falaise Gap and were decimated during the fight. Rare chance to get a document to this medal. It’s in the same order as the British Victoria Cross or American Medal of Honour.