Recognition Award for the Rescue of People from Life-Threatening Danger in Vienna

The Rescue Medal of the State of Vienna honors exceptional civil courage: private individuals who, through responsible actions and at the risk of their own lives, have rescued people from immediate life-threatening danger within the state of Vienna are recognized with this award. In addition to the handcrafted medal made of patinated antique silver (Ø 35 mm) featuring the depiction of rescuer and rescued, the Vienna coat of arms, and the inscription “to the rescuer from life-threatening danger,” a monetary award of €365 is granted. The medal becomes the irrevocable property of the recipients; there is no obligation to return or transfer it after death. Multiple awards are indicated by numeral clasps on the red-and-white split ribbon and underscore continued commitment to disaster protection and the common good.

The award can be applied for at any time as an ongoing funding opportunity and is exclusively intended for those who can present an official police report documenting the rescue. As a formal criterion, the endangerment of one’s own life compared to a third party in Vienna must be clearly demonstrated. The central contact point for submissions is the City of Vienna’s Magistrate Directorate, Presidential Department – Honors. With the Rescue Medal, the State of Vienna not only promotes recognition of heroism in the social sphere but also sends a visible signal to strengthen democratic and solidarity values. Interested parties can find all relevant information about the funding on the federal transparency portal as well as on the City of Vienna’s website under the “Honors” section.