Victoria Cross Royal Navy WW1 British Medal with Blue Ribbon 1918 Naval Repro | eBay Victoria Cross Royal Navy WW1 British Medal with Blue Ribbon 1918 Naval Repro Your Ultimate Military Medal Collection £61.90 We work out the trending price by crunching the data on the product’s sale price over the last 90 days. eBay Premium Service Excellent customer service as rated by buyers 14-day returns Excellent customer service as rated by buyers 14-day returns Please enter a minimum and/or maximum price before continuing. £ Copyright © 1995-2017 eBay Inc. All Rights Reserved. User Agreement , Privacy , Cookies and AdChoice Amounts shown in italicised text are for items listed in currency other than Pounds Sterling and are approximate conversions to Pounds Sterling based upon Bloomberg's conversion rates. For more recent exchange rates, please use the Universal Currency Converter This page was last updated: 18-Jan 12:24. Number of bids and bid amounts may be slightly out of date. See each listing for international postage options and costs.

Victoria Cross Heroes :: The Victoria Cross Victoria Cross Heroes The Victoria Cross The VC can be awarded to women although no woman has yet received one. Originally the VC could not be awarded posthumously, i.e. to anyone who had died whilst performing the act of gallantry; this was changed by an incident in 1900 although formal recognition of posthumous awards did not take place until 1920. The VC can be awarded to civilians if they are "serving with the armed forces"; so far, only five have been bestowed (four in the Indian Mutiny in 1857-58 and one in Afghanistan in 1879). When first awarded, Army VCs were issued with crimson ribbons and Navy VCs had blue ribbons. When the RAF was formed in 1918, it was decided to adopt crimson for all three services rather than introduce a third colour. The VC takes precedence over all other British awards and decorations, even the great orders of chivalry. Under the original statutes for the VC, medals could be forfeited (i.e. cancelled) if the recipient was later found guilty of "dishonourable conduct".

In total, eight VCs were forfeited, including one to an officer, for a variety of crimes including theft and bigamy. The last was forfeited in 1908 and the practice was discontinued in 1920. The original motto suggested for the obverse (front) of the VC was "For the Brave" but this was vetoed by Queen Victoria who felt that it implied that any serviceman not given the medal was not brave; at her instigation therefore the legend "For Valour" was adopted. All VCs are cast from worthless bronze cannon metal originally sourced from two supposedly Russian guns captured at Sebastopol during the Crimean War. These had been used up by the end of 1914 however, since which time bronze from two Chinese guns (probably captured during the Second China War in 1860) has been used. Each and every VC should be engraved with the details of the name, rank and unit (or service) of the recipient on the reverse of the suspension bar, and with the date of his act of bravery within the central circle on the back of the cross itself.

However, at least two genuine VCs are known to exist which do not have any date on the reverse, an enigma for which there is no logical explanation. When a large number of men collectively performed a recognised act of bravery, the VCs (usually more than one) for the action were chosen by ballot amongst the men involved; forty-six have been awarded by this method, the last being for the famous Zeebrugge Raid in April 1918. MEDAL INSIGNIA BRITISH FULL SIZE VICTORIA CROSS WITH BLUE NAVAL PRE 1918 RIBBON | eBay MEDAL INSIGNIA BRITISH FULL SIZE VICTORIA CROSS WITH BLUE NAVAL PRE 1918 RIBBON AU $2.86 to AU $4.88 +AU $2.45 postage eBay determines this price through a machine-learned model of the product's sale prices within the last 90 days.

eBay Premium Service Track record of excellent service Free postage 30+ day money back returns Fast handling; Express postage option Track record of excellent service Free postage 30+ day money back returns Fast handling; Express postage option Please enter a minimum and/or maximum price before continuing. AU $ Copyright © 1995-2017 eBay Inc. All Rights Reserved. User Agreement , Privacy , Cookies and AdChoice Amounts shown in italicised text are for items listed in currency other than Australian dollars and are approximate conversions to Australian dollars based upon Bloomberg's conversion rates. For more recent exchange rates, please use the Universal Currency Converter This page was last updated: 19-Jan 21:00. Number of bids and bid amounts may be slightly out of date. See each listing for international postage options and costs. Victoria Cross (VC) - Orders and Decorations - Canadian Military Medals and Decorations - Remembrance - Veterans Affairs Canada Victoria Cross. A cross pattee, 1.375 inches across, with a dark brown finish. Close For most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy.

Bar A bar is awarded for additional acts of bravery. Only 3 have been awarded, none to a Canadian. Description A cross pattee, 1.375 inches across, with a dark brown finish. Made from cannons captured from the Russians during the Crimean War. Obverse The obverse displays the Royal Crown surmounted by a lion guardant. Below the crown, a scroll bearing the inscription: FOR VALOUR. Reverse Raised edges with the date of the act engraved within a raised circle. Mounting A straight bar (ornamented with laurels), slotted for the ribbon, has a V-lug below. A small link joins the V-lug to a semi-circular lug on the top of the cross. Ribbon The crimson ribbon is 1.5 inches wide and a miniature cross is worn on the ribbon in undress. The ribbon was dark blue for naval recipients until 1918 with Able Seaman William HALL, RN , being the only Canadian VC winner to wear the blue ribbon. Naming The recipient's rank, name and regiment are engraved on the reverse of the mounting bar. Dates The medal was instituted on 05 February 1856 with awards retroactive to 1854.

The first award to a Canadian was in February 1857, to Lt. Alexander DUNN (Charge of the Light Brigade). Issued There have been 1,351 Victoria Crosses and 3 Bars awarded worldwide, 99 to Canadians (Canadian-born, serving in the Canadian Army or having a close link to Canada). Medals: campaigns, descriptions and eligibility - GOV.UK GOV.UK Medals: campaigns, descriptions and eligibility From: 7 December 2016, see all updates Details of the medals awarded to service personnel and civilians, and who can receive them. Contents The Ministry of Defence Medal Office issues medals to members of the armed forces and civilians. You can apply for a medal if you meet the criteria. The information in this guide is intended to give a brief overview only. Announcements Long Service and Good Conduct medals New regulations have been released for the single service Long Service and Good Conduct Medals ( LSGC ) (October 2016). Gallantry awards and honours You can’t apply for these awards. You must be recommended to qualify. You can read recommendations for honours and awards at The National Archives.

The awards below are listed in the official ‘order of precedence’, The letters in brackets are put after a person’s surname to show their award. Victoria Cross ( VC ) The Victoria Cross The Victoria Cross is the premier Operational Gallantry award given for ‘most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy’. It may be awarded to all ranks of the services and civilians and can be awarded posthumously. Individuals who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the VC would be issued with a bar. The MOD Medal Office does not issue this award. George Cross (GC) The George Cross The George Cross is the premier award given for non-operational gallantry or gallantry not in the presence of an enemy. This is awarded for acts of the greatest heroism or of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme danger. It may be awarded to all ranks of the services and civilians and can be awarded posthumously. The MOD Medal Office does not issue this award. Replacement awards are available from the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood.

Orders of the Bath and the British Empire Read information about the Order of the Bath and the Order of the British Empire . Distinguished Service Order ( DSO ) The Distinguished Service Order is an operational gallantry award given for highly successful command and leadership during active operations. Personnel who perform a further act of such leadership which would have merited a second award of the DSO would be issued with a gold bar. It may be awarded to all ranks of the services. This award is not available posthumously. The MOD Medal Office does not issue this award. Replacement awards are available from the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood. Conspicuous Gallantry Cross ( CGC ) The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of an act (or acts) of conspicuous gallantry during active operations against the enemy. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the CGC would be issued with a silver bar. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Conspicuous Gallantry Cross if you meet the criteria.

Royal Red Cross (Class I) ( RRC ) The Royal Red Cross is a Meritorious award given ‘for exceptional devotion and competency in the performance of actual nursing duties…. over a continuous and long period’. Holders of the first class decoration are known as Members ( RRC ). These awards are only available to the nursing services and are not available posthumously. You can replace a Royal Red Cross (Class I) if you meet the criteria. Distinguished Service Cross ( DSC ) The Distinguished Service Cross The Distinguished Service Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy at sea. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the DSC are issued with a silver bar, with rounded ends, ornamented by a crown. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Distinguished Service Cross if you meet the criteria. Military Cross ( MC ) The Military Cross The Military Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy on land.

Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second MC will be issued with a silver bar ornamented by the crown. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Military Cross if you meet the criteria. Distinguished Flying Cross ( DFC ) The Distinguished Flying Cross The Distinguished Flying Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy in the air. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the DFC would be issued with a silver bar ornamented by an eagle. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Distinguished Flying Cross if you meet the criteria. Air Force Cross ( AFC ) The Air Force Cross The Air Force Cross is a non-operational award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry while flying not in the presence of the enemy. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited the award of a second AFC are issued with a silver bar. This award is available posthumously. You can replace an Air Force Cross if you meet the criteria.

Royal Red Cross (Class II) (ARRC) The Royal Red Cross (Class 2) front and back The Royal Red Cross (Class II) is a Meritorious award given for special devotion and competency in the performance of actual nursing duties…. over a continuous and long period’. Holders of the second class decoration are known as Associates (ARRC). Holders of a Royal Red Cross (Class II) (ARRC) who merit a second award are promoted to a Royal Red Cross (Class I) ( RRC ). These awards are only available to the nursing services and are not available posthumously. You can replace a Royal Red Cross (Class II) if you meet the criteria. George Medal ( GM ) The George Medal front and back The George Medal is awarded for conspicuous gallantry not in the presence of the enemy. A silver bar may be issued to George Medal holders who perform a further act of such bravery which would have merited award of a second GM . This award is available posthumously. You can replace a George Medal if you meet the criteria.

Queen’s Gallantry Medal ( QGM ) The Queen's Gallantry Medal front and back The Queen’s Gallantry Medal is awarded to civilians for acts of exemplary bravery at a level below that of the George Medal. The QGM is also awarded to military personnel for acts which military honours would not normally be granted such as acts of exemplary bravery not in the presence of the enemy. A silver bar may be issued to QGM holders who perform a further act of such bravery which would have merited award of the QGM . This award is available posthumously. The MOD Medal Office does not issue this award. Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal (QVRM) The Queen's Volunteer Reserves Medal front and back The Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal is a meritorious award given for members of any rank of the Volunteer Reserve Forces, for devotion to duty and exemplary service over a period usually of at least 10 years that has been of particular value and an outstanding example to others. This award is not available posthumously. You can replace a Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal if you meet the criteria.

Mention in Despatches The Mentioned in Dispatches award A Mention in Despatches is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks for an act (or acts) of bravery during active operations. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Mention in Despatches if you meet the criteria. Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service The Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service Award A Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service is awarded for meritorious service in an operational theatre. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service if you meet the criteria. Queen’s Commendation for Bravery The Queen's Commendation for Bravery award The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery is awarded for an act (or acts) of bravery not in the presence of the enemy. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Queen’s Commendation for Bravery if you meet the criteria.

Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air The Queen's Commendation for Bravery in the Air award The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air is awarded for an act (or acts) of bravery while flying not in the presence of the enemy. This award is available posthumously. You can replace a Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air if you meet the criteria. World War 1 medals All World War 1 medals were issued to the recipient or next of kin after the war ended. You can only apply if the medal was returned, and you can provide a medal card or roll which includes this information. The MOD Medal Office does not provide replacement World War 1 medals. You can buy replicas or original named medals from a medal dealer. 1914 Star The 1914 Star was awarded to personnel who served in France and Belgium between 5 August and 22 November 1914.

1914-15 Star The 1914-15 Star was awarded to personnel who saw service in any theatre of war between 5 August 1914 and 31 December 1915, other than those who had already qualified for the 1914 Star. British War Medal 1914-20 The British War Medal was awarded to personnel in recognition of the successful conclusion of World War 1. It was later extended until 1920 to cover mine-clearing services and operations in North and South Russia, the eastern Baltic, Siberia, the Black Sea and Caspian. Victory Medal 1914-19 The Victory Medal was awarded to all personnel who received the 1914 or the 1914-15 Stars. It is often referred to as the Allied War Medal. World War 2 Medals You can apply for a World War 2 medal if you meet the criteria. Nine stars were issued for the campaigns of World War 2. The colours of the ribbons have symbolic significance and are believed to have been designed personally by King George VI. No more than 5 stars may be awarded to one person.

Those who qualify for more are awarded a clasp with the title of one of the stars to which they qualify. The clasp is then attached to the ribbon of one of the other stars. If you qualify for 2 or 3 of the Atlantic, Air Crew Europe and France and Germany stars, the first star earned is awarded. You will then receive a clasp with the title of the second star earned to be worn on the ribbon of the first. A third star or clasp will not be awarded in this case. 1939 to 1945 Star 1939 to 1945 Star The 1939 to 1945 Star is awarded to personnel who completed operational service overseas between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 (2 Sept 1945 in Far East). 180 days operational service in the army 180 days operational service as ground crew in the RAF 60 days operational service as aircrew in the RAF 180 days service afloat in operational areas in the Royal Navy The colours of the ribbon represent the 3 services.

The star is worn with the dark blue stripe furthest from the left shoulder. Recipients of the 1939-45 Star may also be eligible for: Battle of Britain Clasp served as aircrew on a fighter aircraft been engaged in the Battle of Britain between 10 July 1940 and 31 October 1940 served as aircrew with a UK based Bomber Command Unit served between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 Atlantic Star The Atlantic Star The Atlantic Star is awarded for operational service in the home waters of the Atlantic between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 (2 September 1945 in Far East). To apply for the Atlantic Star , you must have: 360 days operational service or any 6 months afloat in the army 180 days operational service as ground crew in the RAF 60 days operational service as aircrew in the RAF 180 days afloat in operational areas in the Royal Navy already qualified for the 1939-45 Star The colours of ribbon represent the Atlantic Ocean.

The Atlantic Star is worn with the blue edge furthest from the left shoulder. Air Crew Europe Star Air Crew Europe Star The Air Crew Europe Star is earned almost exclusively by RAF personnel for operational flying from UK bases over Europe between 3 September 1939 and 5 June 1944. 120 days operational flying in the army 120 days operational flying for the RAF 120 days operational flying for the Royal Navy already qualified for the 1939-45 Star The ribbon colours of the ribbon represent the sky, night flying and enemy searchlights to symbolise the continuous service of the Air Force by night and day. Arctic Star Arctic Star The Arctic Star is awarded for operational service of any length north of the Arctic Circle (66, 32 N) between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945. The Arctic Star commemorates the Arctic Convoys that sailed to North Russia in support of the Russian allies.

To apply for the Arctic Star , you must have: service of any length either afloat or as part of land operations north of the Arctic Circle in the army, Royal Navy, Merchant Navy, and RAF ground crew service of any length as RAF aircrew who landed or served in the air north of the Arctic Circle approved civilians who served in support of military operations north of the Arctic Circle Africa Star Africa Star The Africa Star is awarded to personnel who served in North Africa, Malta or Egypt between 10 June 1940 and 12 May 1943. To apply for the Africa Star , you must have: 1 day of operational service in the army 1 day of operational service as ground crew in the RAF 1 operational sortie as aircrew in the RAF 1 day afloat in the Mediterranean in the Royal Navy The colours of the ribbon symbolise the desert and the 3 services. Pacific Star: Malaya, Singapore and the Pacific Ocean The Pacific Star The Pacific Star is awarded for operational service in Malaya, Singapore, China, Hong Kong or Sumatra between 8 December 1941 and 2 September 1945.

To apply for the Pacific Star , you must have: 1 day of operational service in the army 1 day of operational service as ground crew in the RAF 1 operational sortie as aircrew in the RAF 1 day afloat in operational areas in the Royal Navy already qualified for the 1939-45 Star The colours of the ribbon represent the jungle, the beaches and the 3 services. If you also qualify for the Burma Star, you will only be awarded the first star you earned. You will then receive a clasp with the title of the second star earned, which is worn on the ribbon of the first. Burma Star The Burma Star The Burma Star is awarded for operational service in Burma between 11 December 1941 and 2 September 1945. Those serving in Bengal and Assam in India and China, Hong Kong, Malaya or Sumatra between other specified dates may also qualify.

To apply for the Burma Star , you must have: 1 day of operational service in the army 1 day of operational service as ground crew in the RAF 1 operational sortie as aircrew in the RAF 1 day afloat in operational areas in the Royal Navy already qualified for the 1939-45 Star The colours of the ribbon represent the sun, British and Commonwealth forces. If you also qualify for the Pacific Star, you will only be awarded the first star earned. You will then receive a clasp with the title of the second star earned which is worn on the ribbon of the first. Italy Star The Italy Star The Italy Star is awarded for operational service in Sicily or Italy between 11 July 1943 and 8 May 1945. Those who served in Yugoslavia, Greece, Corsica or Sardinia between certain other specified dates will also qualify.

To apply for the Italy Star , you must have: 1 day of operational service in the army 1 day of operational service as ground crew in the RAF 1 operational sortie as aircrew in the RAF 1 day afloat in operational areas in the Royal Navy already qualified for the 1939-45 Star The colours of the ribbon represent the national colours of Italy. France and Germany Star The France and Germany Star The France and Germany Star is awarded for operational service in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, The Netherlands or Germany between 6 June 1944 and 8 May 1945. 1 day of operational service in the army 1 day of operational service as ground crew in the RAF 1 operational sortie as aircrew in the RAF 1 day afloat in operational areas of the North Sea in the Royal Navy (provided service was directly in support of land operations) The colours of the ribbon represent the national colours of the United Kingdom, France and The Netherlands. Defence Medal The Defence Medal front and back The Defence Medal is awarded for non-operational service such as those service personnel working in headquarters, on training bases and airfields and members of the Home Guard.

The medal is also awarded for non-operational service overseas for example in India or South Africa. To apply for the Defence Medal , you must have either: 1080 days (3 years) service in the UK between 3 Sep 1939 and 8 May 1945 360 days (1 year) non-operational service overseas between 3 Sep 1939 and 2 Sep 1945 180 day’ non operational service in an area deemed to be closely threatened of subject to air attack between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 The colours of the ribbon symbolise enemy attacks on Britain’s ‘green and pleasant land’ and the black out. War Medal 1939 to 1945 War Medal 1939 to 1945 front and back The War Medal is awarded to all full time personnel of the armed forces wherever they were serving. The medal was granted in addition to campaign stars and the Defence Medal. To apply for the War Medal , you must have served at least 28 days between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945.

The colours of the ribbon represent the Union Jack. Legion d’Honneur The Legion d’Honneur is issued by the French Government to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Normandy Landings. This medal is not issued by the MOD Medal Office. Find out how you can apply for the Legion d’Honneur . Post World War 2 campaign medals General Service Medal 1918-62 General Service Medal 1918 to 1962 with Malaysia clasp front and back The General Service Medal ( GSM ) 1918-1962 was awarded to army and RAF personnel who meet the qualifying criteria for service in any of the following geographical areas: South Persia The medal is also awarded for: Bomb and Mine Clearance 1945 to 1949 Bomb and Mine Clearance 1945 to 1956 Berlin Airlift If you think you might be eligible, contact the MOD Medal Office . If your application is successful, you’ll be awarded the GSM with a clasp for the relevant geographical area. If you become eligible for a further clasp, you will not get a second medal.

The clasp should be added to the GSM medal ribbon, worn above the first clasp. Naval General Service Medal 1915 The Naval General Service Medal ( GSM ) 1915 was awarded to Royal Navy and Royal Marine personnel who meet the qualifying criteria for service in any of the following geographical areas: Palestine 1936-1939 The medal is also awarded for: Minesweeping 1945-51 Bomb and Mine Clearance 1945-49 Bomb and Mine Clearance 1945-53 Bomb and Mine Clearance Mediterranean Berlin Airlift If you think you might be eligible, contact the MOD Medal Office . If your application is successful, you’ll be awarded the Naval GSM with a clasp for the relevant geographical area. If you become eligible for a further clasp, you will not get a second medal. The clasp should be added to the Naval GSM medal ribbon, worn above the first clasp. Korea Medal The Korea Medal front and back The Korea Medal is awarded to personnel who participated in the Korean War between July 1950 and 27 July 1953.

To apply for the Korea Medal , you must have either: 1 day of service on land in Korea in the army, RAF or Royal Navy 1 operational sortie over Korea or Korean Waters in the RAF 28 days service afloat on ships or crafts engaged in operations off the Korean coast in the Royal Navy General Service Medal 1962-2007 The General Service Medal 1962 to 2007 with Cyprus clasp front and back The General Service Medal ( GSM ) 1962-2007 is awarded to army, RAF , Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel who meet the qualifying criteria for service in any of the following geographical areas: Borneo North Iraq and South Turkey The medal is also awarded for: Mine Clearance: Gulf of Suez Air Operations Iraq If you think you might be eligible, contact the MOD Medal Office . If your application is successful, you’ll be awarded a GSM with a clasp for the relevant geographical area. If you become eligible for a further clasp, you will not get a second medal. The clasp should be added to the GSM ribbon, worn above the first clasp.

South Atlantic Medal The South Atlantic medal front and back The South Atlantic Medal was awarded for service in the Falklands Islands, the dependencies, or in the South Atlantic between 2 April 1982 and 14 June 1982. been a member of the Kuwait Liaison Team served in Kuwait on 2 August 1990 The colours of the ribbon represent the desert landscape and the 3 services. Kuwaiti Liberation Medal and the Saudi Liberation of Kuwait Medal The governments of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia issued these medals to the allied personnel who had taken part in the liberation of Kuwait. The Queen granted permission for British service personnel to accept but not wear these medals. Operational Service Medal – Sierra Leone Sierra Leone Medal The Operational Service Medal ( OSM ) Sierra Leone is awarded to personnel who completed operational service in Sierra Leone or the Joint Operational Area between 5 May 2000 to 31 July 2002. 1 day of service on Op Barras or Op Maidenley 14 days continuous or accumulated service on Op Palliser 30 days continuous or accumulated service on Op Basillica or Silkman A silver rosette may be issued for service on Operations Maidenly and Barras.

The rosette is worn on the ribbon of the OSM . The colours of the ribbon represent the jungle and the 3 services. Operational Service Medal – Afghanistan The Afghanistan Medal with Clasp front and back The Operational Service Medal ( OSM ) Afghanistan is awarded to personnel who complete operational service on or in support of, operations in Afghanistan from 11 September 2001. You’ll automatically receive the medal if you’re currently serving and have deployed on a current operation, you don’t need to apply. If you have not received your medal and think you might be entitled, speak to your Unit HR . served under the command of the UK Joint Task Force Commander 30 days continuous service or 45 days aggregated service served in either Zone 1 or Zone 2 (service in Zone 1 will be recognised with a clasp to the OSM ) The colours of the ribbon represent the landscape of Afghanistan and the 3 services.

Operational Service Medal – Democratic Republic of Congo The Democratic Republic of the Congo Medal The Operational Service Medal ( OSM ) Democratic Republic of Congo (DROC) is awarded to personnel who completed operational service in Bunia in the Ituri Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo between 14 June and 10 September 2003. 25 days operational service 5 operational sorties with the RAF The Operational Service Medal will be issued with a DROC clasp which should be worn on the ribbon. The colours of the ribbon represent the landscape of DROC and the 3 services. Iraq Medal The Iraq Medal with 19 Mar to 28 Apr 2003 Clasp front and back The Iraq medal is awarded to personnel who completed operational service in Iraq between 20 January 2003 and 22 May 2011.

To be considered for the medal with clasp ’19 Mar – 28 Apr 03’, you must have: served in Zone One between 19 March 03 and 28 April 03 completed 7 days continuous service, or served as aircrew flying into Zone One and completed 2 or more operational sorties (no more than 1 sortie per day) To be considered for the medal only, you must have: completed 30 days continuous service in either Zone One or Zone Two, or served as aircrew flying into Zones One or Two, or served as aircrew based outside of Iraq and completed 10 operational sorties (no more than 1 sortie per day) The clasp is to be worn on the ribbon of the medal. The colours of the ribbon represent the Iraq landscape. Criteria for this medal is complex and the above is a guide only. If you think you might be eligible, contact the MOD Medal Office .

General Service Medal 2008 The General Service Medal 2008 Medal with Southern Asia Clasp front and back The General Service Medal ( GSM ) 2008 is awarded to army, RAF , Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel who served on operations from 1 January 2008 in the following geographical areas: Eastern Africa Northern Africa Southern Asia In order to qualify for the above clasps, specific criteria must be met. You’ll automatically receive the medal if you’re currently serving and are eligible, you don’t need to apply. If you have not received your medal and think you might be entitled, speak to your Unit HR . Veterans or Next of Kin should apply to the MOD Medal Office . If your application is successful, you’ll be awarded the GSM with a clasp for the relevant geographical area. If you become eligible for further clasp, you will not get a second medal. The clasp should be added to the GSM medal ribbon, worn above the first clasp. It is expected that further operations and clasps will be added to the GSM 08 as time progresses. The Permanent Joint Headquarters (PJHQ) decides which operations qualify for the GSM 08, not the MOD Medal Office.

Ebola Medal Ebola Medal for service in West Africa front and back The Ebola Medal is awarded for service in the Joint Operational Area within West Africa between 23 March 2014 and 29 March 2016. Applications for the Ebola Medal are no longer being processed. Coronation and Jubilee medals HM The Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal 1977 HM The Queen's Silver Jubilee Medal The Silver Jubilee Medal was awarded to personnel to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II accession. The MOD Medal Office no longer issues this medal. HM The Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal 2002 HM The Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal The Golden Jubilee Medal was awarded to personnel to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II accession. To apply for the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal , you must: have been in effective service on 6 February 2002 completed a minimum of 5 years reckonable service and were enlisted on or before 7 February 1997 served with the regular, reserve or cadet forces The medal was issued unnamed.

HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal 2012 HM The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal The Diamond Jubilee Medal was awarded to personnel to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II accession. been in effective service on 6 February 2012 completed a minimum of 5 years’ reckonable service and were enlisted on or before 7 February 2007 served with the regular, reserve or cadet forces The medal was issued unnamed. Current Meritorious and Long Service medals Meritorious Service Medal The Meritorious Service Medal ( MSM ) recognises long term service in the armed forces of non commissioned ranks. Officers may be considered immediately after commissioning. You cannot apply for this medal, it’s only issued to current serving personnel who have been recommended by the commanding officer. To be considered, you must: have 20 years’ reckonable service be at least a substantive sergeant or equivalent be a holder of the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal have been judged as ‘good, faithful, valuable and meritorious’, with conduct judged to be ‘irreproachable’ throughout The Service Boards look for evidence of particular achievements, either in the course of or outside of military duty.

These can include: achievements which benefit the service in the public, for example community engagement with local councils or cadet forces achievements in the field of sport charity work A limited number are awarded each year. Service boards consider recommendations in April and October every year. To find out how to recommend someone go to: Royal Navy: BR 8748 Army: Queen’s Regulations paragraphs 5.392, 10.006 to 10.007 and DIN 2006DIN10-006 for additional information RAF : AP 3392, Volume 4, Leaflet 2006, Annex A Accumulated Campaign Service Medal The Accumulated Campaign Service Medal ( ACSM ) is awarded to army, RAF , Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel to recognise continued campaign service.

To apply for the ACSM , you must have completed 1,080 days aggregated by 1 January 2008 in theatres which would have merited: a General Service Medal 1962-2007 (Northern Ireland, Air Ops Iraq) an Operational Service Medal(Sierra Leone, Afghanistan) an Iraq Medal If your aggregated service falls short of 1,080 days by 1 January 2008, the service will go towards the ACSM 2011. If you go on to complete a further 1,080 days aggregated service by 31 December 2007, you will be awarded a bar. The bar is worn on the ribbon of the ACSM . Accumulated Campaign Service Medal 2011 The Accumulated Campaign Service Medal 2011 The Accumulated Campaign Service Medal ( ACSM ) 2011 is awarded to army, RAF , Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel to recognise continued campaign service. To apply for the ACSM 2011 , you must have completed 720 days aggregated service and be serving either on or after 1 January 2008.

Your service must have merited: a General Service Medal 1962-2007 (Northern Ireland, Air Ops Iraq) an Operational Service Medal (Sierra Leone, Afghanistan) an Iraq Medal If you go on to complete a further 720 days aggregated service, you will be awarded a bar. The bar is worn on the ribbon of the ACSM . You can receive more than one bar. Royal Naval Long Service and Good Conduct Medal Royal Navy Long Service and Good Conduct Medal The Long Service and Good Conduct ( LSGC ) Medal for the Royal Navy is awarded to personnel in recognition of long service. The regulations were updated on 1 October 2016. To qualify, you must have: 15 years’ reckonable service in the Navy a clear record with no misconduct for at least the last 15 years been serving on or after 29 July 2014, if you’re an officer been serving on or after 1 October 2016, if you’re an ‘other rank’ have all 3 conduct badges with character judged no lower than ‘very good’ You don’t need to apply if you’re currently serving. The MOD medals office is currently processing applications.

Talk to your unit HR or go to 2016DIN09-023 or JSP 761 for more information. If you have a disciplinary entry on your record, you will need to wait 15 years from the date of your last offence before you will be eligible again. You should apply through your unit HR . If you have been discharged and are eligible you should apply to the MOD Medal Office . For every additional 10 years’ service with a clear record you’ll be issued a clasp. For example, if you qualify and have served 26 years you will receive the medal and clasp. Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal The Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal The Long Service and Good Conduct ( LSGC ) Medal for the army is awarded to personnel in recognition of long service. The regulations were updated on 1 October 2016.

To qualify, you must have: 15 years’ reckonable service in the army a clear record with no misconduct for at least the last 15 years been serving on or after 29 July 2014, if you’re an officer been serving on or after 1 October 2016, if you’re an ‘other rank’ You don’t need to apply if you’re currently serving. The MOD medals office is currently processing applications. Talk to your unit HR or go to 2016DIN09-023 or JSP 761 for more information. If you have a disciplinary entry on your record, you will need to wait 15 years from the date of your last offence before you will be eligible again. You should apply through your unit HR . If you have been discharged and are eligible you should apply to the MOD Medal Office . For every additional 10 years’ service with a clear record you’ll be issued a clasp. For example, if you qualify and have served 26 years you will receive the medal and clasp.

Royal Air Force Long Service and Good Conduct Medal The RAF Long Service and Good Conduct Medal The Long Service and Good Conduct ( LSGC ) Medal for the Royal Air Force is awarded to personnel in recognition of long service. The regulations were updated on 1 October 2016. To qualify, you must have: 15 years’ reckonable service in the RAF a clear record with no misconduct for at least the last 15 years been serving on or after 29 July 2014, if you’re an officer been serving on or after 1 October 2016, if you’re an ‘other rank’ You don’t need to apply if you’re currently serving. The MOD medals office is currently processing applications. Talk to your unit HR or go to 2016DIN09-023 or JSP 761 for more information. If you have a disciplinary entry on your record, you will need to wait 15 years from the date of your last offence before you will be eligible again. You should apply through your unit HR . If you have been discharged and are eligible you should apply to the MOD Medal Office .

For every additional 10 years’ service with a clear record you’ll be issued a clasp. For example, if you qualify and have served 26 years you will receive the medal and clasp. Volunteer Reserves Service Medal The Volunteer Reserves Service Medal The Volunteer Reserves Service Medal ( VRSM ) replaced the separate medals that used to be issued to personnel of the separate Reserve Forces in April 1999. The VRSM is awarded to both officers and other ranks of the: Royal Naval and Royal Marine Reserves Army Reserves (formerly the Territorial Army) Royal Auxiliary Air Force These medals may still be issued for qualifying service ending before 1 April 1999: Royal Naval Reserve Decoration Efficiency Medal for the Army Reserve Air Efficiency Award for the Royal Auxiliary Air Force To be considered for the VRSM , you must have: 10 years’ reckonable service in the Reserve Forces earned a training bounty in 9 out of the 10 qualifying years If you go on to serve an additional 5 years reckonable service you’ll be issued a clasp. The clasp should be worn on the ribbon of the VRSM . There are complex rules for service that has been both regular and reserve.

If you think you might be eligible, please contact your Unit HR or apply to the MOD Medal Office . Further information can be found in DCI JS 53/99 and AP3392 Vol 7 Leaflet 702 Annex B. Cadet Forces Medal The Cadet Forces Medal The Cadet Forces Medal ( CFM ) is awarded in recognition of long service in the Cadet Forces. To be considered, you must: be an officer or uniformed adult instructor have 12 years’ reckonable service At the discretion of service boards, the following are not counted as breaks in continuity of service for the medal: any break which does not exceed 6 months breaks of up to 3 years’ by reason of change in place of residence or changing in civilian employment Up to 3 years’ service with any of the following may be used towards the CFM if it’s not been used towards another medal: Reserve Forces Officer Training Corps University Air Squadrons If you go on to complete a further 6 years’ service, you’ll be issued a clasp (it doesn’t need to be continuous). Prior to 1991, 8 years additional service was required.

The clasp should be worn on the ribbon of the CFM . You can’t apply for this medal. Recommendations are to be made in accordance with JSP 814, Policy and Regulations for MOD Sponsored Cadet Organisations. The Elizabeth Cross: Died on Operations Recognition Award The Elizabeth Cross and miniature The Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll are granted to the next of kin of regular, reserve or Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel who have died on operations, or as a result of an act of terrorism: whilst serving on an operation in which personnel received a Campaign Medal, GSM or OSM whilst serving on an operation in which personnel received a UN , NATO (or other international body) or another nations’ campaign medal in the absence of a UK medal as a result of an act of terrorism where the available evidence suggests they were targeted because of their membership of the UK armed forces on a non medal earning operational task where death has been caused by the inherent high risk of the task a subsequent and premature death as a result of an injury or illness attributed to the circumstances outlined above Recipients and how to apply You can apply for both the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll. For retrospective claims and when the next of kin is deceased, their legal successor may apply.

An additional Memorial Scroll only is available to the following (or their legal successors) where they are not the next of kin: the parents of the deceased the spouse or partner of the deceased, or someone who had a substantive relationship with the deceased If you’re the next of kin of someone who died during the Korean War, you’ll receive the Elizabeth Cross but not the Memorial Scroll, as this was issued at the time. If you think you might be eligible, contact the MOD Medal Office . Order of wear There are strict rules surrounding the wearing of medals and decorations. The latest full list of the British Orders of Knighthood, decorations, medals and the order of wear can be found in the 2003 publication of The London Gazette You can contact the Medals Office if you have a query about the order of wear. Wearing of medals You should only wear official decorations, medals or emblems which you are entitled to and have been approved for acceptance and wear. Unofficial medals should not be worn with official orders, decorations and medals. If you are the next of kin of a deceased service person, it is common practice to wear your relative’s decorations and medals as a mark of remembrance.

It is custom to wear medals on the right breast in civilian dress only, official approval is not required to wear relative’s medals. Current serving personnel should not wear relative’s medals or unofficial medals whilst wearing uniform. Unofficial medals You can buy unofficial medals from private medal companies or dealers. Unofficial medals are medals that have not been instituted by a monarch. Popular examples of unofficial medals are: Dunkirk Medal British Gallantry Medals of the First World War Victoria Cross (V.C.) (Level 1 Gallantry Award) This is the highest award for gallantry. It is awarded for an act of outstanding courage or devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy. All ranks were, and still are, eligible when serving with the British and Commonwealth armed forces. The Royal Warrant for the award of the Victoria Cross has essentially remained the same since the inception of the medal to the present day. It was, and still is, awarded “for most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy.” (1) The Victoria Cross can also be awarded to civilians if they were under military command at the time of the act of bravery.

The George Cross (G.C.) is an equivalent award but is made to an individual, military or civilian, who has carried out an act of special courage when not in the face of the enemy. Origin of the Victoria Cross The Victoria Cross was instituted on 29th January 1856. At the time of the Crimean War (1853-1856) the British military - which consisted of the Royal Navy and the Army - did not have a gallantry medal open to all ranks. The idea was put forward to the British House of Commons by a Member of Parliament and ex-Royal Navy man, Captain T Scobell. It was also suggested as an idea by the then Secretary of State, the Duke of Newcastle. His successor, Lord Panmure, carried on with the correspondence about the new gallantry medal already established with Prince Albert. Queen Victoria was very interested in the medal, especially as it was to be named after her. She preferred the name of “Victoria Cross” to the suggested title of “The Military Order of Victoria”. Victoria involved herself by making suggestions about the design and the metal it could be made of.

She was the person who suggested that the design should bear the words “For Valour” instead of the suggested words “For the Brave”. The word “valour” extended a special significance to an act of extra special bravery and courage, which might be considered to be more than an act of “bravery”. Queen Victoria did not like the original copper cross which was submitted for approval. A suggestion was made to create the medal from the cascabels (the knob and the neck of a breech-loading cannon) of two Russian cannons captured in the Crimea. As has been examined in a recent study(2), the two 18 pounder cannons which were provided for creating the Victoria Cross medals were Chinese in origin, not Russian. One theory is that the guns were captured by the Russians from the Chinese and used against the British Army in the battle at Sevastopol. It has also been suggested that the metal used for the Victoria Crosses cast during the First World War did not come from these two original cannons, but from other Chinese guns captured in the Boxer Rebellion (1898-1901). The Royal Warrant for the Victoria Cross was issued on 29th January 1856.

The first investiture ceremony was held a few months later in Hyde Park on 26th June 1856. 62 awards were issued for acts of valour during the Crimean War (1853-1856). There is approximately 10kg of remaining metal from the two cascabels of the original cannons reputed to have come from Sevastopol. This is stored in a secure vault and can only be taken out of the vault under an armed guard. The same jewellers, Hancocks of London, has been responsible for casting the Victoria Cross medal from the first one to the present day. The Crimson Medal Ribbon Until April 1918 the medal ribbon issued with the Victoria Cross medal was red (or crimson) for Army recipients and blue for Navy recipients. When the Royal Air Force was formed on 1st April 1918 it was decided that recipients from all of the three Services should wear the crimson ribbon with the medal. From 22nd May 1920 King George V stated in a warrant that all recipients would wear the crimson ribbon. Recipients in the Royal Navy who had already received the blue ribbon were also to wear the crimson ribbon from then on.

Awards of the Victoria Cross in WW1 There were 615 Victoria Crosses awarded during the First World War. WW1 awards of the Victoria Cross were: 415 awarded to the British Army 51 to the Navy and Marines 9 to the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Air Force 140 to the Dominion Forces. Victoria Cross and Bar Prior to April 1917, if a second award of a Victoria Cross (a Bar) was made to one individual, they were to wear a miniature cross on the ribbon strip to indicate the second award. In an Army Order of April 1917 this was changed so that a miniature cross would be worn on the ribbon strip to indicate the award of the first VC, with another miniature for the second VC award (the Bar). If further awards were issued to that same individual then additional miniature crosses would be worn on the ribbon strip as appropriate. To date there have been no awards of more than two Victoria Crosses to one individual. In the First World War two Victoria Cross recipients were recommended for a second award (a Bar). They were both officers serving with the R.A.M.C.: Lieutenant A Martin-Leake and Captain N G Chavasse, MC.

Recommendation for a Victoria Cross A regimental officer will usually make the recommendation and it should be supported by three witnesses. The reigning king or queen will be presented with the recommendation and he or she will sign an approval. In the event that a group of service personnel in a squadron, detachment or a ship's company should be recommended as equally deserving of a recommendation for the award, a name is drawn by ballot. Posthumous Awards of the Victoria Cross Originally the Royal Warrant for the award did not cover the issue of the award posthumously. Although this was not officially changed in the warrant until after the First World War, a quarter of those recipients who were awarded the Victoria Cross during WW1 were killed as they carried out their deed of valour. Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O.) (Level 2 Gallantry Award) The D.S.O. was instituted by Royal Warrant on 6th September 1886. The D.S.O. was originally instituted as an award for officers of the British Army and Commonwealth Forces, usually at the rank of Major. It was, however, also awarded to officers at a rank above or below Major. The D.S.O.

could be awarded for an act of meritorious or distinguished service in wartime and usually when under fire or in the presence of the enemy. It was also made available for officers at the equivalent rank in the Royal Navy and, from 1st April 1918, the Royal Air Force. Between 1914 and 1916 the D.S.O. was also awarded to some Staff officers when they were not under fire or in contact with the enemy. This was not well received at the time by officers who were in the field. From 1st January 1917 it was restricted to recommendations for individuals who were in the presence of the enemy. The award was generally given to an officer in command, but some were awarded to junior officers below the rank of Captain. Almost 9,000 D.S.O.s were awarded during the First World War. On 23rd August 1916 a Warrant enabled a recipient to be awarded a Bar for an additional award of the D.S.O. The medal was issued without the name of the recipient being engraved on it, but some medals do bear the name of a recipient engraved on the reverse of the suspension bar.

The recipient of a D.S.O. is known as a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order and is entitled to use the letters D.S.O. after his name. Distinguished Service Cross (D.S.C.) (Level 3 Gallantry Award) Instituted 15th June 1901 as the Conspicuous Service Cross and renamed in October 1914 the Distinguished Service Cross. The D.S.C. was awarded to naval officers below the rank of Lieutenant Commander for gallantry at sea in the presence of the enemy. Almost 2,000 D.S.C.s were awarded during the First World War. A bar is awarded for subsequent acts of gallantry. The recipient is entitled to use D.S.C. after their name. Military Cross (M.C.) (Level 3 Gallantry Award) Instituted by Royal Warrant on 28th December 1914. The Military Cross was a decoration for gallantry during active operations in the presence of the enemy. individuals in the British Army, the Indian Army or the Colonial Forces. Commissioned officers with the rank of Captain or below or Warrant Officer were eligible for the award.

From June 1917 officers of the rank of captain but who had a temporary rank of major could receive the award. The reverse of the medal was issued plain with no engraving. Some families and individuals engraved their details at their own expense. From August 1916 an individual could receive one or more Bars to the Military Cross. Recipients of the medal are entitled to use the letters M.C. after their name. The Military Cross (M.C.) is the British Army equivalent of the Distinguished Service Cross (D.S.C.) and Distinguished Flying Cross (D.F.C.). The Military Cross photographed here(3) was awarded to Lieutenant Ewart Alan Mackintosh of the 5th Battalion Seaforth Highlanders (51st Highland Division). Lieutenant Mackintosh, MC was the author of the poem ‘In Memoriam’ featured on this website at: (Level 3 Gallantry Award) Instituted on 3rd June 1918. Awarded to officers and warrant officers of the Royal Air Force for an act or acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty while flying on active operations against the enemy.

A bar is added to the medal ribbon for subsequent acts of valour, for which a subsequent D.F.C. would be awarded. Recipients of the medal are entitled to use the letters D.F.C. after their name. The medal was issued with no inscription of the recipient's name. During the First World War there were about 1,100 D.F.C. awards. It is equivalent to the Distinguished Service Cross (D.S.C) for acts of valour at sea and the Military Cross (M.C.) for acts of valour on land. This silver medal was designed by the medallist E Carter Preston. He was the winner of the design for the Next of Kin Memorial Plaque. Air Force Cross (A.F.C.) Instituted on 3rd June 1918. The award was given to personnel of the British Armed Forces and other Commonwealth Forces for an act or acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty whilst flying though not in active operations against the enemy. Until after the Second World War Air Force Officers and Warrant Officers were eligible for the award. After the Second World War aviation officers in the Army and Navy were also eligible for the award.

From 1993 all ranks were eligible for this award. The medal was designed by the medallist E Carter Preston. He was the winner of the design for the Next of Kin Memorial Plaque. Recipients were entitled to use the letters A.F.C. after their name. Distinguished Conduct Medal (D.C.M.) (Level 2 Gallantry Award) Instituted on 4th December 1854. The D.C.M. was the first official medal award to recognise an act of gallantry in the field by a member of the armed forces who was below the rank of officer. It was the other ranks' equivalent of the Distinguished Service Order. The D.C.M. was awarded for gallantry in the field in the face of the enemy. Other ranks in the British Army and also non-commissioned ranks in Commonwealth Forces were eligible for this award. The reverse of the medal bears the inscription “For Distinguished Conduct in the Field”. A bar carrying the date of a subsequent deed could be added to the ribbon until 1916 when the bar was changed to a laurel wreath. A recipient of the award is entitled to used the letters D.C.M. after their name. The D.C.M.

was discontinued as an award by the British Armed Forces in 1993, when the three awards of the D.S.O, the D.C.M. and the C.G.M. were replaced by the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross. The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross is now the second level gallantry award for all ranks of the British Armed Forces. Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (C.G.M.) (Level 2 Gallantry Award) First instituted as a Royal Navy medal in 1855 and then fully instituted on 7th July 1874. The Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (C.G.M.) was awarded to other ranks for an act of gallantry against the enemy at sea or in the air. The reverse of the medal bears the inscription “For Conspicuous Gallantry”. An additional award for a subsequent deed would entitle the wearer to a silver laurelled bar. A recipient of the award is entitled to used the letters C.G.M. after their name. The C.G.M. is equivalent to the British Army's Distinguished Conduct Medal (D.C.M.). Distinguished Service Medal (D.S.M.) (Level 3 Gallantry Award) The D.S.M.

was established on 14th October 1914. It was an award for bravery whilst on active service at sea and was for other ranks' Royal Navy personnel, members of the other Services and other Commonwealth countries who held rank up to and including Chief Petty Officer. On the reverse there was an inscription “For Distinguished Service”. Bars were awarded for subsequent actions and the date of the action during the First World War was given on the reverse of the bar. Recipients of the medal are entitled to use the letters D.S.M. after their name. The Distinguished Service Medal (D.S.M.) is equivalent to the Military Medal (M.M.), the Distinguished Flying Medal (D.F.M.) and the Air Force Medal (A.F.M.). Military Medal (M.M.) (Level 3 Gallantry Award) Instituted on 25th March 1916 (and backdated to 1914). The Military Medal was awarded to other ranks of the British Army and Commonwealth Forces. It was an award for gallantry and devotion to duty when under fire in battle on land. On the reverse of the medal is inscribed “For Bravery in the Field”.

Recipients of the medal are entitled to use the letters M.M. after their name. The Military Medal is the British Army equivalent of the Distinguished Service Medal (D.S.M.), the Distinguished Flying Medal (D.F.M.) and the Air Force Medal (A.F.M.). Distinguished Flying Medal (D.F.M.) Instituted on 3rd June 1918. Awarded to other ranks of the Royal Air Force for an act or acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty while flying on active operations against the enemy. Later it was available to the equivalent ranks in the Army and Royal Navy for acts of valour in the air. Recipients of the medal are entitled to use the letters D.F.M. after their name. A subsequent award receives a silver bar with an eagle in the centre of it. It is equivalent to the Distinguished Service Medal (D.S.M.) for acts of valour at sea, the Military Medal (M.M.) for acts of valour on land and the Air Force Medal (A.F.M.). The medal was designed by the medallist E Carter Preston. Air Force Medal (A.F.M.) Instituted on 3rd June 1918.

The award was given to personnel of the British Armed Forces and other Commonwealth Forces for an act or acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty whilst flying though not in active operations against the enemy. Other ranks were eligible for the award. Recipients were entitled to use the letters A.F.M. after their name. The Air Force Medal was designed by E Carter Preston. He was the winner of the design for the Next of Kin Memorial Plaque. Meritorious Service Medal (M.S.M.) Instituted in 1845 (British Army), in 1849 (the Royal Marines), in 1918 (the Royal Air Force) and in 1919 (the Royal Navy). The criteria for eligibility was different for each of the above Services and the number of medals issued was also restricted within each of the Services. Army Originally the award was for meritorious service by Non-Commissioned Officers. Between 1916 and 1919 a Royal Warrant amended the eligibility of the award so that Non-Commissioned Officers could be awarded the M.S.M. in the field. Royal Marines Originally the M.S.M. was awarded for gallantry or distinguished service.

Between 1916 and 1919 Non-Commissioned Officers could be awarded the M.S.M. in the field. Royal Air Force The M.S.M. was awarded for meritorious service by ground crew. Royal Navy The M.S.M was awarded for gallantry not in the face of the enemy and for meritorious service by petty officers and senior naval ratings. Mentioned in Despatches (M.I.D.) “Mentioned in Despatches” is not an award of a medal, but as a commendation of an act of gallantry it is included in this listing. To be “Mentioned in Despatches” is when an individual is mentioned by name and commended for having carried out an noteworthy act of gallantry or service. A Despatch is an official report written by the senior commander of an army in the field. It would give details of the conduct of the military operations being carried out. From the time of the Boer War the Despatches were published in the London Gazette in full or in part. The phrase “Mentioned in Despatches” was used for the first time in a newspaper article by Winston Churchill (Morning Post, 6th October 1898) (4).

An individual could be mentioned in despatches more than once. As with the Victoria Cross, this commendation for an act of gallantry could be made posthumously. In 1919 Army Order 166/1919 confirmed that individuals “Mentioned in Despatches” would receive a certificate. This included personnel of the British Navy, Army and Air Force, and Indian Dominion, Colonial, Egyptian Forces and members of the Red Cross, Y.M.C.A., Y.W.C.A. and British civilians male and female. In 1920 Army Order 3/1920 authorized the issue of an emblem to signify that an individual had been “Mentioned in Despatches” between 4th August 1914 and 10th August 1920. A bronze oak leaf was issued and could be worn on the ribbon of the British Victory Medal. British Victory Medal M.I.D. Listing Individuals who are Mentioned in Despatches are listed in The London Gazette.

The Gazette can be searched online: Website: 2nd Lieutenant Mackay The Oak Leaf in the photograph(5) was awarded to 2nd Lieutenant Mackay of the 5th Battalion Seaforth Highlanders (51st Highland Division). He had accompanied Lieutenant E A Mackintosh, MC on a raid into the enemy trenches which had been the inspiration for Mackintosh's poem ‘In Memoriam’. Inspiration for poem “In Memoriam” Citation for a Gallantry Award A citation is a brief report providing details of the deed for which an award for gallantry has been granted to an individual. A recommendation for a gallantry award was usually given by a commanding officer using Army Form W3121. When the award was granted these details were generally used to create the citation for the award. Unfortunately almost all the recommendation forms W3121 from the First World War were destroyed in enemy bombing in the Second World War. The award of a gallantry or distinguished service medal and a Mention in Despatches was published in The London Gazette. However, only some of the announcements were printed with their citation.

The following gallantry awards were, however, listed with a citation: The Victoria Cross (V.C.), the Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O.), the Military Cross (M.C.) and the Distinguished Conduct Medal (D.C.M.). For information on where to find records of medals and citations see our page at: Reproduction and Replica Victoria Cross - Naval - Miniature Description Reviews (0) Instituted: January 1856 Description: A cross pattee. (Obverse) a lion statant gardant on the royal crown, with the words FOR VALOUR on a semi circular scroll. (Reverse) a circular panel. The cross is suspended by a ring from a seriffed 'V' attached to a suspension bar decorated with laurel leaves. Ribbon: Up until 1918 Naval Victoria Crosses were issued with this blue ribbon. Comments: Introduced as the premier award for gallantry, available to all ranks, to cover all actions since the outbreak of the Crimean War in 1854, it was allegedly created by Prince Albert, the Prince Consort. Of the 1,355 awards given since 1856, only 107 have been awarded to Royal Navy personnel.

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Question: What colour was the medal ribbon on the Naval Victoria Cross until 1918?
Answer: Blue