Indeed, you're right.
The Legion Condor was compromised of over 25,000 troops who pioneered the now famous concepts of blitzkrieg in the field of Spain. In addition to the Spanish Republican Army, the Condor Legion and their allies would come up against Communist forces sent from Russia and "International Legions" (French, Canadian, U.S.). This aid began to arrive and supply the Republican side almost immediately after the War began.
The Condor Legion ranks were mostly composed of Luftwaffe personnel, who would further develop and test air war tactics and equipment later used with much success throughout World War II. They would participate in critical battles, such as the Aragon Offensive, the Battle of Ebro, and the final assault on Catalonia. They would also be involved in controversial civilian bombing, such as the bombing of the towns of Bilbo and Guernica in 1937. Overall, the War in Spain lasted three years, there were many hard fought battles and 600,000 total lives lost from all causes.
With German and Italian help, General Franco and the Nationalist forces prevailed. Upon the return of the Condor Legion to the Reich, awards were presented in ceremonies with much flair. On June 6th, 1939, all the recipients paraded through the streets of Berlin in front of Hitler and a rapturous public.
On the left is Legion Kondors Honor medal which was awarded to soldier who fell or were wounded during the Spain civil war.
