Medals and Insignia of the Republic of Vietnam and Her Allies 1950-1975

Book excerpt: Medals and Insignia of the Republic of Vietnam and her Allies 1950 to 1975. This is the most complete listing of all medals, decorations, ribbons and unit awards of the Republic of Vietnam. It includes all Vietnamese civilian and military awards in their different classes as well the medals of the Commonwealth allies, the Philippines, China, Korea, Thailand any United States and includes French medals for the war in Vietnam. Examples of uniforms and insignia for the RVNAF Army, Navy and Air Force are shown. As a display of its new sovereignty, the state of Vietnam in 1950 issued metals of its own to accompany the new flag and national army. Recommendations or awards were to be sent each year on 1 January to be Imperial chancellery or the final decision of his Majesty the chief of state. On early medals, only the wounded medal was inscribed State of Vietnam, later it was changed to the Republic of Vietnam. After 1954, Vietnam was effectively split with the communist in the north and a pro-Western government in the south. The Republic of Vietnam developed an extensive award system pattern mainly on the French model. Only the civilian Kim Khanh declaration retained a true native labor. A review of French medals and devices revealed the original on some of the South Vietnamese medals. The book, printed in full, presents nearly full-size images of every Republic of Vietnam military medal and civilian medals. All of the decorations and medals are described in detail to include the criteria for award to both South Vietnamese and foreign personnel. The rarity and the difference between South Vietnamese manufacturers and foreign manufacturers are noted for each award. A new section illustrates the uniforms of the Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces, their rank insignias, examples of their shoulder sleeve insignia and skill badges. The book is not only a stirring tribute to all who fought to defend South Vietnam against communist aggression but will become the authoritative guide on this much misunderstood subject.