Italy, Republic. Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, Grand Officer’s Set by S,Johnson C. 1960 Republic of Maryland National Guard Guard State

Maryland National Guard Guard State Service Cross (bronze

We do by these Presents grant unto you the dignity of the Knight Commander of Our said Order

and the aluminum bullion borders

Van Wielik La Haye”

Italy, Republic. Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, Grand Officer’s Set by S,Johnson C. 1960 Republic of Maryland National Guard Guard StateInstitution Date: March 3, 1951. Grand Cross Badge in silver gilt with white enamels, with crown suspension in silver gilt with red, green, white and black enamels, measuring 55 mm (w) x 72 mm (h inclusive of its crown suspension), on period ribbon, in better than very fine condition; and Breast Star: multi piece construction, silver gilt with white enameled insignia, mounted to an eight pointed silver star base, hallmarked on pin loop, measuring 73