The Ministry of Defence Medal Office issues a variety of military medals to recognize personal accomplishments and service achievements. These medals are awarded to individuals serving in the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, British Army, Royal Air Force, Armed Forces veterans, and civilian personnel. The medals are listed in the official order of precedence, with specific letters denoting the award after a person’s surname.
Decorations, Gallantry, and Distinguished Conduct medals are prestigious awards that cannot be applied for but must be recommended for qualification. The Victoria Cross (VC) is the foremost Operational Gallantry award, recognizing exceptional bravery or self-sacrifice. The George Cross (GC) is the premier award for non-operational gallantry. Orders of the Bath and the British Empire are bestowed upon senior civil servants, military officers, and diplomats.
The Distinguished Service Order (DSO) is an operational gallantry award for successful command and leadership during active operations. The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross (CGC) is given for acts of conspicuous gallantry against the enemy. The Royal Red Cross (Class I) (RRC) is a meritorious award for exceptional nursing duties. The Military Cross (MC), Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC), and Air Force Cross (AFC) are operational gallantry awards for exemplary acts in different military contexts.
The Queen’s Gallantry Medal (QGM) is awarded for acts of bravery below the level of the George Medal. The Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal (QVRM) recognizes exemplary service in the Volunteer Reserve Forces. Mention in Despatches and Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service are operational gallantry awards, while the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery and Bravery in the Air acknowledge acts of bravery not in the presence of the enemy.
First World War medals, such as the 1914 Star, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal 1914-20, and Victory Medal 1914-19, were awarded to personnel based on their service during the war. World War II saw the issuance of nine campaign stars, each representing different theaters of operation. The Defence Medal and War Medal 1939-1945 were granted for non-operational services and the successful conclusion of the war, respectively.
Post-World War II campaign medals include the General Service Medal 1918-62, Naval General Service Medal 1915, Korea Medal, General Service Medal 1962-2007, and various operational service medals recognizing service in specific geographical areas or operations.
Meritorious Service Medals and Long Service Medals are awarded to personnel for long-term service and exceptional achievements. The Volunteer Reserves Service Medal (VRSM) recognizes service in the Reserve Forces, and the Cadet Forces Medal is awarded for long service in the Cadet Forces. The Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll honor personnel who died on operations or due to terrorism.
Recent developments in military medals include the introduction of the Wider Service Medal in 2024, broadening recognition for personnel engaged in operational roles with lower physical risk. The medal acknowledges changing operational activities that may not meet traditional criteria for operational medals. The Order of Wear outlines strict rules for wearing medals, ensuring only entitled individuals wear official decorations.
Wearing of medals is a solemn tradition, with guidelines on who can wear them and how they should be displayed. The article also highlights recent news in the military, including updates on specific military operations and personnel achievements.
📰 Related Articles
- Youngest Military Cross Recipient’s Medals Sold at Auction
- Why Military Medal Recognition Matters for WWII Veterans Today
- Veterans Demand Overhaul of Military Honours Recognition System
- UWA Accommodation Guide: Options for International Students Explained
- Morocco Dominates African Military Boxing Championship with 10 Gold Medals