Peru Order Of Military Combatants Andres Avelino Caceres 1923

Bronze gilt with red and black enamels, 53.3 mm, on suspension bar inscribed "AL MERITO" (For Merit) with ribbon and elongated hanger with stickpin attachment, light contact and gilt wear, very fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, padded navy blue felt exterior, slit in the fabric of the hinged area, case fine. Footnote: The order is awarded for distinction in armed combat in the defence of the country. Andrés Avelino Cáceres Dorregaray 1833-1923 became a national hero in his native Peru leading the resistance to Chilean occupation during the War of the Pacific, 1879-1883. He subsequently served twice as President of Peru from 1886 to 1890, and again from 1894 to 1895 with mixed success, going into exile in Argentina. He was later Peruvian ambassador to Italy and Germany, returning to Peru in 1919 and being granted the rank of Marshal. He is today the patron of the Peruvian Infantry. Condition I.