Order of the Three Stars

Order of the Three Stars (Triju Zvaigžņu ordenis) is an order awarded for meritorious service to Latvia. It was established in 1924 in remembrance of the founding of Latvia. Its motto is "Per aspera ad astra", meaning "Through hardships to the stars". The Order has five ranks and three grades of medals of honour.

The ranks

 * Commander Grand Cross with Chain (1st class with Chain) see below
 * Commander Grand Cross (1st class)
 * Grand Officer (2nd class)
 * Commander (3rd class)
 * Officer (4th class)
 * Bearer (5th class)
 * Medal of Honour, 1st Class
 * Medal of Honour, 2nd Class
 * Medal of Honour, 3rd Class



The cross
The cross of the order is white enamel cross within gilded edges. In the center of the front side of the cross there is blue enamel medallion with three golden five-point stars on it. The reverse side has gilded medallion with inscriptions "Per aspera ad astra" and "Latvijas Republika — 1918.g.18. novembris" (Republic of Latvia - 18 November 1918).

The Stars
The Stars are first and second rate orders. The first rate order and the second rate order, (the great star and the small star, respectively) have similar design and differ only in size. The stars are in shape of five point star made of silver with blue enamel medallion with three golden five-point stars in its center. On its edge there is inscription "Par Tēviju" (For Fatherland).

Chain of the Order
Chain of the Order is awarded to Commander of the Grand Cross in exceptional cases. It has ten gilded links with alternately chiseled images of three stars, fire-cross, lion and griffin.

Medal of honour
Medal of honour is a round medal on front of which the cross of the order is depicted. The reverse side has inscription "Par Tēviju" with flaming heart below the inscription. It has wreath of oak leaves on its edge. The medal of honour has three grades - gold, silver and bronze.