German Eastern Front Medal (Medaille für die Winterschlacht im Osten). The German Eastern Front Medal (Medaille für die Winterschlacht im Osten) was instituted on 26 May 1942 to commemorate the first winter campaign in Russia, operation Barbarossa. The medal was also known as the 'Frozen Meat Medal'. Approximately 3 million examples have been awarded. The medal is maker marked with number '55' indicating production by the company of 'J.E. Hammer & Söhne' from Geringswalde. The medal is complete with its original short ribbon as found. Nice example in good used condition!