"Order Of Merit" For Germans -- West Germany's first decoration, the Order of Merit, to be awarded for political, economic or intellectual services. President Heuss is publishing a decree establishing the order. Resembling the old Iron Cross, it will be bestowed in seven classes, and will be worn with a black, red and gold ribbon. The bars of the cross, which are smaller red with gilded edges. In the centre is the eagle of the federal Republic. September 12, 1951.