Sweden – The Landstorm and Home Guard medal heritage of Olof Bäckström

The Landstorm and Home Guard medal heritage of Olof Bäckström from Stockholm.

 

Landstorm (plural landstormen) was a form of militia (see Landsturm) and territorial defence force created in Sweden in 1885. It consisted of all conscripts who had completed their service, generally men between 33 and 40 years of age, as well as a smaller number immediately transferred there. The landstorm was intended “for the defense of the home town” within “own or nearest neighbouring enlistment districts.” The landstorm was first raised in time of war, in the parts of the country most threatened by the enemy, and organized according to existing conditions and provided with commanders based on advice and quarters. The landstorm was abolished in 1942.

 

The Home Guard – National Security Forces (Swedish: Hemvärnet – Nationella skyddsstyrkorna) is a military reserve force of the Swedish Armed Forces. It was formally established on May 29, 1940, during World War II upon popular demand. While originally composed of former militia groups, today it comprises half of the Swedish Army, thus constituting the basis of the territorial defense of Sweden.

This multi piece heritage consists of various medals and badges and table medals all given to Landstorm and Home Guard member Olof Bäckström from Stockholm. It´s a unique one-off group of awards from the 1940-th and onwards.