Royal and Military Order of Saint Ferdinand

ESP012 Real y Militar Orden de San Fernando

Order was instituted on 31 August 1811.
Order is awarded to military personnel, individuals or collectives, in recognition of meritorious acts of heroism and courage displaying in the defense of the country.
Order was awarded in two classes: with laurel (for heroism and acts of courage), and without laurel wreath (for distinguished services). Currently the order awarded in five classes: Grand Cross Laureate, Individual Laureate Cross, Collective Laureate Cross, Individual Military Medal, and Collective Military Medal.
There are three types of insignia: I type (1811-1815), II type (1815-1920) and III type (after 1920).
Ferdinand III of Castile - was King of Castile from 1217 and King of León from 1230.