IPhrothiya yeGolide

iPhrothiya yeGolide (Golden Protea) is a South African military decoration. It was instituted with effect from 27 April 2003, and may be awarded to members of the South African National Defence Force (or any other armed forces serving with the SANDF) for exceptional leadership, or exceptional meritorious service and utmost devotion to duty. A bar may be awarded to a recipient who earns the decoration again. A recipient is entitled to use the post-nominal letters PG.

The iPhrothiya yeGolide forms part of a trio of military decorations for meritorious service, the others being iPhrothiya yeSiliva (Silver Protea) and iPhrothiya yeBhronzi (Bronze Protea). Language of origin: ISIZULU

Exceptional Leadership

 * More than usual, exceptional, unique.
 * Aptitude, talent, ability, sharp-witted.
 * Creativity.
 * Ability to persevere.

Outstanding Service of Highest Order

 * Service of vital importance/permanent significance for the SANDF.
 * Outside normal routine.
 * Consistent quality of work.
 * Unselfishness.
 * Positive effect in the organisation.
 * Distinguishes him-/herself from others.
 * V isible and measurable results at a national or interdepartmental level.

Wear
The award of the decoration for service in active military operations shall be indicated by distinguishing insignia according to the Service in which the recipient was serving, i.e.
 * Army uniform: Crossed swords
 * Air Force uniform: Eagle
 * Naval uniform: Anchor
 * Military Health Service uniform: Rod of Aesculapius.

Description
The decoration is a 6-pointed gold star, displaying a stylised protea flower on a blue hexagon. The protea, which is South Africa's national flower, has been used on military merit awards since World War II.
 * Obverse

The reverse depicts the South African coat of arms.
 * Reverse

The ribbon is blue with a centre panel of gold - black - gold stripes. If the decoration is earned during a military operation, an arm-of-service emblem will be worn on the ribbon to indicate whether the recipient was serving in the Army, Air Force, Navy, or Military Health Service at the time of earning the award.
 * Ribbon