The Estonian Air Force Service Cross ( et, Õhuväe teeneterist) is an

Estonian Air Force The Estonian Air Force ( et, Õhuvägi, ) is the aviation branch of the Estonian Defence Forces. The air force traces its history to 1918, and was re-established in its current form in 1991. As of 2016, the Estonian Air Force has a strength of ...

recognition for active duty and combat services rendered in the interests of the Republic of Estonia.

Description

The medal was established for the purpose of recognizing persons who have outstanding merits before the Air Force. The medal is a cone made of silver metal with concave branches at the ends and a silver eagle holding a triangular shield with the sword of the right foot between the claws of the right leg and the claws of the Estonian leg with the claws of the left leg. There are 3 classes.

Qualifications for the award

A medal may also be awarded to Estonian citizens who have supported the development of the Air Force. The Commander of the Air Force Staff makes a proposal for the award of a medal to the Council of Merit of the Air Force. The decision to award a medal of merit shall be made by the council of merit and is formalized by a directive of the Commander of the Air Force. A medal of merit includes a certificate which has the given name and surname of the recipient of the medal of merit, rank, type and number of medal of merit, date of issue and basis for award.

Classes

File:Estonian Air Force 1st Class Service Cross.jpg, 1st Class Service Cross File:Estonian Air Force 2nd Class Service Cross.jpg, 2nd Class Service Cross File:Estonian Air Force 3rd Class Service Cross.jpg, 3rd Class Service Cross

Notable recipients

* Major

Benno Leesik Benno Leesik (17 January 1960 Haapsalu – 2006) was an Estonian military personnel ( Major). In 1996 he graduated from Tartu University in law. From 8 June 1999 to 25 March 2006, he was the chief of Estonian Defence League The Estonian Defen ...

, Commander of the Defense League 08.06.1999 - 25.03.2006

References

{{Reflist Estonian Air Force Orders, decorations, and medals of Estonia