CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -The Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany was instituted in 1951 by Federal President Theodor Heuss. It is the only honour that may be awarded in all fields of endeavour and is the highest tribute the Federal Republic of Germany can pay to individuals for services to the nation.

Detailed explanation-2: -The Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany (German: Verdienstorden der Bundesrepublik Deutschland, or Bundesverdienstorden, BVO) is the only federal decoration of Germany. It is awarded for special achievements in political, economic, cultural, intellectual or honorary fields.

Detailed explanation-3: -The Order was instituted on 1 May 1937 by Adolf Hitler. On 27 December 1943 the Order was reorganized into nine classes. The Grand Cross of the Order of the German Eagle with Star (Grosskreuz des Deutschen Adlerordens) and swords was the second highest level of the award given to political and military leaders.