By Forte Othniel D.
There are several national medals given to deserving persons (citizens and non-citizens) by the Republic of Liberia. Of all these awards, the highest is the Most Venerable Order of the Knighthood of the Pioneers (shortened Order of the Pioneers of Liberia). Below is about the Order of the Pioneers of Liberia.
The Liberian Humane Order of African Redemption was founded on January 13, 1879. At the time, the president was Anthony W. Gardiner. It is not known if President Gardiner ever gave out the award.
The conditions for meriting this award is stated as having to do with humanitarian work in Liberia, for acts supporting and assisting the Liberian nation and to individuals who have played a prominent role in the emancipation of African Americans and the pursuit of equal rights. Over the years all recipients have had to have met at least these standards to be given this award. This order replaced the Lone Star Medal.
The Regalia of the Order
The medallion is a white enamel five pointed star with five gold balls on the points and golden rays between the arms. This is the same for the badge. On the reverse of the medallion, is the image of black people praying with broken chains under a cross with the motto "The Love of Liberty Brought Us Here". The ribbon is red with one blue and three white stripes. On the front of the star is the Coat of Arms of Liberia (the national Seal). The ribbon that holds it is GREEN. A notable recipient is the late A. Doris Banks Henries.
At its inception there were three grades in the Order:
1. The Grand Commander: The Grand Commander is to wear the wide ribbon on the right shoulder and the star of the Order on the left.
2. The Knight Commander: The Knight Commander is to wear the ribbon around the neck and a smaller but otherwise identical star.
3. The Officer: The Officer is to wear the narrow ribbon with rosette on the left.
