Eastern Front Frozen Meat Full Size Medal

The Eastern Front Frozen Meat Full Size Medal is a World War II German military decoration, officially known as the Eastern Front Medal (Medaille “Winterschlacht im Osten” 1941/42). Instituted on May 26, 1942, it was awarded to Wehrmacht and Axis personnel who participated in operations on the Eastern Front during the first winter campaign against the Soviet Union, between November 15, 1941, and April 15, 1942. The medal is commonly referred to as the “Frozen Meat Medal” due to the extreme cold endured by recipients. The medal is made of zinc and measures approximately 36mm in diameter. The obverse features a German eagle clutching a swastika above a crossed sword and branch, while the reverse is inscribed with “Winterschlacht im Osten 1941/42.” The award is suspended from a red, white, and black ribbon. This item served as recognition for those who withstood the harsh winter conditions