first and second classes, and Knights. The Princes of the House of Baden are born Knights of the Grand Cross. The number of the members is unlimited.
The Order is worn by the Knights of the Grand Cross across the right shoulder by a green ribbon with orange coloured borders, accompanied by an octagonal silver star; the round red scutcheon in the middle contains a golden lion in a fighting position, with the inscription: 'Für Ehre und Wahrheit' (For honour and truth) (Tab. II. No. 8). Knights who are already in possession of the Family Order of Loyalty, wear a Grand Cross round the neck.
The Knights of the first class wear, besides, a square silver star with the Cross of the Order upon it, and surrounded by a red ring, with the above inscription.
The simple Knights wear the decoration at the buttonhole.
As a particular distinction, the decoration of the Commanders and Knights is often adorned with an oak leaf (Tab. II. No. 13). This is the case since 1826.
The first chapter was held three years after its foundation, in 1815, at the time of the Vienna Congress. The size of the Cross varies with the different classes.
DISTINCTION OF MERIT FOR OFFICERS, SUB-OFFICERS, AND PRIVATES.
This Order was founded on 18th February, 1831, by Grand Duke Leopold, as a public acknowledgment for long and loyal service in the army.
1. Officers who have served in the line twenty-five years (including the years of lower rank) receive the small golden Cross (Plate 10. Tab. II. No. 10).
