Order "For Service Of Distinction To The Field Of Defence".

[new world]

Albanian Order "For Distinguished Defence" 1cl.

FOUNDED 18. JANUARY 1965

[new world]

2 nd class

[CtahhR]

Here is the 3rd Class of the Order "For Service Of Distinction To The Field Of Defence" (Urdhëri "Për Shërbime Të Shquara Në Fushën E Mbrojtjes").

I've not yet located the founding Decree but there are many dates currently attributed to foundation. "1960's" covers the current speculation.

[Al-muell]

What is depicted on the obverse? the thing to the left seems to be rifle barrel with a byonette, but what s the other thing? Looks a bit like anvil, but that, of course, would not make much sense.

[CtahhR]

It's a pickaxe. The Albania's liked their "digging in".

[Al-muell]

A pickaxe?
Well, I think it can be linked to the omipresnce of bunkers in Albania or generally military engieering, but still not really something I would associate with he word "defense"...