- May 22, 2020
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Order of the Lion of Sarmatia
Ordo Leonis Sarmatiae
Foundation and Purpose:
The Order of the Lion of Sarmatia is one of the most distinguished chivalric orders of the Kingdom of Poland, founded by His Majesty King Stanislaus Grabowski in the Year of Our Lord 2006, to honor those who embody the warrior spirit, nobility, and dedication to the defense of the Kingdom of Poland. The order is rooted in the ancient traditions of Sarmatian nobility, which symbolizes the strength, resilience, and courage that have long been the foundation of Polish honor and military prowess.The Lion of Sarmatia, a symbol drawn from the legendary Sarmatian warriors who once roamed the lands of ancient Poland, is a powerful emblem of courage in the face of adversity and unwavering loyalty to the Crown. The Order recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary valor, leadership, and contributions to the defense and well-being of the Kingdom of Poland, particularly in times of war, unrest, or national peril.
The Order of the Lion of Sarmatia is awarded to those who have distinguished themselves in the service of the Crown, through acts of military leadership, heroism, or through extraordinary service to the Kingdom's military, cultural, and national heritage.
Classifications of the Order:
Grand Cross of the Lion of Sarmatia- Awarded to: Senior military officers, heads of state, or other distinguished individuals who have demonstrated unparalleled leadership in defense of the Kingdom or have achieved significant feats of courage, both in battle and in diplomatic or national service.
- Insignia: A large golden cross with the image of a lion's head at the center, surrounded by a red and gold enameled ribbon, suspended from a broad crimson sash. A silver star bearing the same lion's head is worn on the left breast.
- Awarded to: Senior officers, military strategists, and commanders who have led successful campaigns, improved the Kingdom's defenses, or contributed significantly to the Kingdom's military or cultural institutions.
- Insignia: A smaller gold cross with a lion's head at the center, worn on a red and gold ribbon, with a silver medallion attached.
- Awarded to: Military officers, soldiers, and civilian patriots who have displayed courage, heroism, and loyalty in their service to the Kingdom of Poland, especially during critical moments of national defense or war.
- Insignia: A silver cross featuring a lion's head at the center, suspended from a red and silver ribbon.
- Awarded to: Individuals who have shown bravery or made notable contributions to the Kingdom’s military or civic life through exemplary service in defense, diplomacy, or cultural preservation.
- Insignia: A round silver medal featuring the lion's head at the center, hanging from a crimson ribbon.
Privileges and Duties:
Privileges of the Order:Members of the Order of the Lion of Sarmatia are granted the titles "Knight" or "Dame of the Lion of Sarmatia" according to their rank within the order. They are invited to attend royal ceremonies and military events, and may hold honorary positions in military academies, government institutions, or national advisory councils. Recipients of the Grand Cross or Commander ranks are entitled to add the post-nominal letters K.L.S. (Knight of the Lion of Sarmatia) or C.L.S. (Commander of the Lion of Sarmatia) to their names.
Duties of the Order:
Members are called upon to uphold the military traditions of the Kingdom of Poland, promote national defense, and protect Poland's interests both within the Kingdom and in the wider world. Members are also expected to serve as mentors to younger generations of soldiers and citizens, passing on the values of honor, courage, and loyalty.
Ceremony of Investiture:
The investiture of the Order takes place annually on May 3rd, the anniversary of Poland’s Constitution, during a solemn military ceremony held in Warsaw's Royal Castle, where members of the Royal Family and high-ranking military officers gather to celebrate the Kingdom's military traditions. The ceremony is presided over by the King of Poland, who personally bestows the insignia upon the recipients.The ceremony involves the swearing of an oath of loyalty to the Crown, the Kingdom, and the values of the Order, followed by the conferral of the insignia. A military parade, accompanied by royal guards and military bands, marks the occasion. Recipients are also honored with a banquet in the royal hall, where they are officially welcomed into the ranks of the Order.
Badge and Insignia Design:
The emblem of the Order of the Lion of Sarmatia features a golden cross with intricate engravings, at the center of which is a detailed lion's head, symbolizing strength, courage, and the noble spirit of the Sarmatian warriors. The lion’s head is flanked by decorative patterns resembling the traditional armor worn by the Sarmatians.The Grand Cross is a large, radiant cross with red and gold enamel, and the Medal is a smaller, round version of the cross with a lion's head in silver. The Commander’s Cross is a more compact version of the Grand Cross, worn on a ribbon of crimson with gold trim, while the Knight's Cross is similarly styled but in silver.
The lion's head is the defining feature of all insignia, representing the valor and sacrifice of the Kingdom’s defenders. The use of red and gold signifies courage, loyalty, and royal authority.
Conclusion:
The Order of the Lion of Sarmatia remains one of the most prestigious honors in the Kingdom of Poland, celebrating those who have shown unmatched courage, wisdom, and devotion to the defense of the Kingdom. It is a testament to the enduring strength of the Polish spirit and the legacy of the ancient Sarmatians, whose bravery and noble virtues continue to inspire the Kingdom’s warriors and leaders today.Given under Our hand and seal, at the Royal Palace of Warsaw, this day of May, in the Year of Our Lord 2006.
His Majesty, King Stanislaus Grabowski of Poland
His Excellency Count Władysław J. Orłowski, Royal Chancellor and Keeper of the Seal
