established by an Executive Order of the President of the Russian Federation of March 2, 1994.
The Order for Services to the Fatherland is awarded to citizens for the most outstanding merits and contributions to the country in the development of Russia's statehood, professional advances, strengthening peace, friendship and cooperation among nations, or for significant contributions to the defence of the Fatherland.
The Order has four degrees, which are awarder sequentially, beginning with the lowest level (IV degree).
The Order for Services to the Fatherland of I and II degrees includes a badge and a star, while of III and IV degrees only a badge. The Order’s ribbon is red silk moire.
For valour in combat, military servicemen are awarded the Order for Services to the Fatherland with swords.