A Cross of the Spanish Campaign 1936-1939

Cross of the Spanish Campaign 1936-1939 - Bronze, 37.8 mm, oxidation residue on the reverse, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, maker marked "CRAVANZOLA ROMA" on the inside lid, recessed medal bed, scuffed, case very fine. The medal was instituted on June 6, 1940 on the basis of previous unofficial initiatives dating back to 1938, to recognize acts of outstanding bravery by members of the Italian Legion in the Spanish Civil War. The Cross resembles somewhat the Cross for War Merit (Croce al Merito di Guerra) and is often referred to as the "Croce al Merito di Guerra per le Operazioni Militari in Spagna" (Cross for War Merit for the Military Operations in Spain). Initial Italian volunteers from the ranks of the fascist militia were eventually joined in Spain by "volunteers" from the Italian army and air force serving in the Corpo Truppe Volontarie (Corps of Volunteer Troops).