WW2 Polish Celluloid Medal Bar Castelfidardo 1945-47, Celluloid & Brass

A set of award ribbons for the uniform after a soldier of the Polish Armed Forces in the West. Award ribbons for:

Polish Bronze Cross of Merit

Polish Army Medal

Polish Monte Cassino Memorial Cross

(British) Star 1939-45

(British) Star for Italy

(British) Medal of War

(British) Defense Medal

Ribbons of this type were made in Italy in the city of Castelfidardo from July 1944, just before the Battle of Ancona until around 1947. Castelfidardo was the center for accordion production (where Celluloid was used). Throughout the war, the demand for musical instruments dropped, and as soon as Polish units captured the city, local workshops began to produce Polish symbols, patches and souvenirs.

Medal bar belonged to Corporal Czesław Wasilewski, born in 1913, Army Number 1913-114-III. Took part in the Battle of Monte Cassino. Fought in the 6th Light Artillery Regiment of the 5 Kresowa Infantry Division.