Amaranth ribbon

The Amaranth Ribbon or Amaranth Rosette (Amarantowa Wstążka or Amarantowa Wstążeczka) was a Polish substitute (provisional) combat decoration.

The decoration was established by Order No. 120 of 17 February 1918, issued by Lieutenant General Józef Dowbor-Muśnicki, commander of the I Polish Corps in Russia, “to demonstrate the splendid combat deeds of his soldiers and [to award] those who had deserved it.”

Initially, the ribbons in the national colour (amaranth) were 2 cm wide; later they were 3 cm long and 1 cm wide. The rosettes were worn on the left breast, halfway between the first and second buttons of the uniform or coat. Each act of heroism was to be recognized with one rosette. Rosettes were to be worn one below another, at a distance of 0.5 cm.

“Officers and soldiers who deserve the badge will be mentioned in an order to the corps, and their names submitted to the National Government.”

On 27 February 1918, the first decoration of soldiers distinguished in battles against the Bolsheviks took place at the Bobruisk Fortress, in the presence of a German delegation headed by Major Wulffen.

The list of recipients included 565 officers, non-commissioned officers and enlisted men.