On Ww1 german ribbons what do the cross swords indicate

[arantxa]

I did look on internet but what do the little cross swords indicate on the ribbons ? 

[Coldstreamer]

For combat was always my understanding but not 100% on that 

[arantxa]

I thought that but then I thought surely most are awarded for combat or maybe you could have them as an add on ?

[GreyC]

10 hours ago, Coldstreamer said:

For combat was always my understanding

That is correct. Sometimes there was a medal eligible for civilians or peacetime achievements, as well as for military /combat-service. To distinguish the cause of merit swords were attacherd for the latter. Sometimes the same medal was issued to either those who served during war, but not in combat or even to next of kin of soldiers kia. In any case: swords for those who earned them under fire.

GreyC

[arantxa]

thank you