Home raiders threatened a 94-year-old woman before stealing her father's war medals just hours before Remembrance Sunday.
The daughter of First World War hero Thomas Morris was targeted by the trio, who smashed through her glass back door on Saturday night.
The pensioner was threatened with violence in her property in Oldbury, West Mids, before the masked men ordered her to open her safe.
They escaped with cash and jewellery as well as sentimental medals awarded to her father for his courage during the Great War.
Mr Morris received three bravery medals for his service, including a Victory Medal engraved with ‘TA MORRIS’ on the back and attached to a rainbow ribbon.
All were taken by the thieves, who are described as white men in their late teens or early 20s wearing dark blue clothing.
A Queen Victoria ‘Goblet Florin’ - which is a two shilling piece minted in 1800 - and a five shilling piece made into a brooch were also stolen.
The gang also threatened the woman into handing over her gold wedding band and engagement ring, plus a zirconia eternity ring and another gold ring.
The war hero's daughter was unharmed but left "very shaken" by the frightening ordeal.
West Midlands Police said officers have been conducting local enquiries, seized CCTV and forensically examined the home for clues.
The force is also appealing for help from the public to catch the offenders and recover the OAP's prized possessions.
Detective Sergeant Matt Nightingale, from Force CID, said: “This is a despicable crime against an elderly woman.
"She was threatened with serious violence which is shocking and totally unnecessary.
“Her father risked his life for our freedoms and, ironically, those of the criminals who’ve now targeted his daughter’s home.
“Some people will know or suspect who is responsible for this offence. I would ask them to do the right thing and get in touch.
"This could have been your grandmother’s home that’s been broken into.
“They do not deserve any protection so please call us. You can call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
"You won’t be asked your name and calls can’t be traced.”
Detective Sergeant Ian Comfort added: “If you’re offered these medals or have any information I would urge you to get in touch.
"The woman is understandably heartbroken that her father’s war medals have been taken from her and is desperate to be reunited with them."
Anyone with information is urged to call 101 or message police on Live Chat via our website quoting crime reference 20/1478678/21.
