Watch List notes:

RUSSIA

Alexander II, 1855-1881. Silver badge with blue and red enamel, gold crown and diamonds, bearing the date 1877. Two military miniatures and a pin are joined. AR & AU. 18,71 g.
XF

Gripenberg began his military career in 1854 in the ranks of the Russian Crimean Army. In 1877 he became commander of the 2nd Infantry Battalion of the elite Imperial Russian Life-Guards, were he get this medal. He saw combat again during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, where he was awarded the Order of St. Vladimir, Order of St. Stanislaus, and Order of St George in 1877, and promotion to major general on 22 February 1878. He resigned from active service in 1906.