Albania was invaded by Italy on 7 April 1939 and consequently annexed, with a puppet government installed under Italian leadership. Throughout the occupation, numerous small Albanian resistance units came to life. After the surrender of Italy in 1943, German troops occupied the country till November 1944.

In relation to World War II, the following awards can be listed :

The Medal of Remembrance

Instituted on 9 July 1945, this medal was awarded to those who served uninterruptedly, from July 1943 (creation of the National Liberation Army's General Staff) till the liberation of Albania on 29 November 1944, either as combattants or in a political role. Recipients of this medal also received the Medal of Bravery.

The Order of the Partisan Star

Also instituted on 9 July 1945, this order was created in three classes (gold, silver, bronze) for award to officers for successful meritorious or heroic leadership in wartime. Military units could also receive the order for distinguished service in battle.

The Order and Medal of Bravery

Equally instituted on 9 July 1945, the Order of Bravery was awarded to officers for excellence in command of military units on the battlefield.

The Medal of Bravery was an award to officers, NCO's and soldiers for courage shown in combat.

The Medal of Liberation

Created on 13 October 1945, this medal was the main campaign decoration for service in World War II : it was awarded to all military and civilian personnel who actively participated in combat operations during the war and could be awarded posthumously.

The Commemorative Badge for Italian Military in Operations against Greece and Yougoslavia

Awarded to those that took part in the Greek Campaign between 28 October 1940 and 23 April 1941. The obverse legend can be translated as "From Albania to the Victorious Soldiers of Rome". This small badge was originally manufactured by the firm of Boeri of Rome but other firms joined in later, amongst them Johnson and Lorioli.