ORDER OF LIBERTY - CROSS OF SORROW

Vapauden Risti IV. lk.
was issued to the next-of-kin to the fallen soldier; usually his wife or mother. The award is equal to the 4th class of the Cross of Liberty, however this award was rarely, if ever, worn by their recipients.

This particular cross was issued to the relatives of Veikko Ruotsalainen, who was killed in Winter War actions at Summa on January 27th, 1940 against the attacking Soviet forces. The document is signed by Field Marshal of Finland, C.G. Mannerheim. Veikko Ruotsalainen, born on May 12th 1908, was a finnish skier and member of the national Olympic military patrol team in 1928 which placed second. Wiki

The text, which is in finnish, reads as follows:
"It is my plight of duty to inform You that VEIKKO RUOTSALAINEN has falled in combat for the freedom of the Fatherland and for all the values we keep holy and sacred.

I deeply regret your sorrow, but I wish to honestly let you know and relieve you with the knowledge that you have had to give Finland the most valuable sacrifice. The almighty and forgiving God will strengthen You".

The award is no longer for sale but we have chosen to keep this page up since it is linked from Wikipedia.

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