Italy, Republic. An Order of Merit, Grand Cross Breast Star by Johnson visually-hidden each with substantial autonomy on

each with substantial autonomy on financial and institutional affairs

measuring 41 mm (w) x 40 mm (h)

First Class neck cross

2) A Prussian Long Service Miniature for 12 Years of Service

stating "Deeply regret to inform you that your son Private John J Creech Jr USMC was Killed in Action at Tarawa instead of Missing in Action as previously reported

Italy, Republic. An Order of Merit, Grand Cross Breast Star by Johnson visually-hidden each with substantial autonomy on(Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana). Instituted in 1951. In silver gilt with white enamels, mounted to an eight pointed star base, each star point with five faceted rays, maker marked "S JOHNSON MILANO ROMA" on the reverse cartouche, marked 925 on 3 oclock arm, measuring 80. 45 mm (w) x 80. 55 mm (h), vertical pinback, intact enamels, extremely fine.