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Bible Encyclopedias
Medals and Decorations
1911 Encyclopedia Britannica
or "MEDALS AND DECORATIONS ( see 18.2; 15.860). - In the present article an account is given of British, American and other war medals and decorations created between 1910 and 1921, of new orders of knighthood considered as service decorations, and of changes in the insignia and the eligibility conditions of orders, decorations and medals existing in 1910.
. - British War Medals Of The Period 1910-4 Before the war several new medals, as well as new issues of, and new clasps to, existing medals were authorized.
A new issue of the African general service medal was authorized in 1916 under Army Order 89 of 1916, bearing the effigy and titular legend of King George V. on the obverse. The conditions of award were similar to the old medal. Clasps: " East Africa 1913," " East Africa 1913-14," " East Africa 1914," " Shimber Berris 1914-15," " Nyasaland 1915," " Jubaland 1917-18," " East Africa 1918," " Somaliland 1920." Those already in possession of King Edward VII.'s medal received the bars only.
A new issue of the India general service medal of 1908 with the effigy of King George V. on the obverse, was made for later Indian frontier services. The clasp " Abor 1911-12 " was authorized for the troops who took part in the Abor expedition of 1911-2 and the clasp " Afghanistan N.W. Frontier 1919 " for service in the Afghan War of 1919.
The Natal 1906 silver medal was granted by the Natal Government in 1908 to all those who took part in suppressing the native revolt of 1906. Obverse: bust of King Edward VII. Reverse: an erect female figure representing Natal with the sword of justice in her right hand and a palm branch in the left, standing on a heap of native arms and supported by Britannia who holds the orb of empire in her left hand. In the background a group of natives with the sun bursting forth from behind the clouds. A clasp inscribed " 1906 " was issued with the medal. Ribbon: red with black edges.
The Antarctic medal was awarded to members of (I) Sir Ernest Shackleton's expedition of 1907 with clasp " Antarctic1907-1909"; (2) Capt. R. F. Scott's expedition with clasp " Antarctic 1910-1913 "; (3) the Mawson expedition 1912 with clasp " Antarctic 1912 "; (4) Sir Ernest Shackleton's Imperial trans-Antarctic expedition of 1914-6 with clasp " Antarctic 1914-1916." The medal in bronze was granted to the crews of various relief ships at different dates, and is a separate decoration, which can be held in addition to the silver medal.
In 1915 a naval general. ervice medal was awarded by King George V. for service in minor naval operations, whether in the nature of belligerency or police, of sufficient importance to justify the award of a medal where no other medal would be appropriate. Obverse: the head of King George V. in naval uniform. Reverse: a representation of Britannia and two sea-horses travelling through the sea. A clasp, " Persian Gulf 1909-1914," was authorized when this medal was established, for issue to officers and men of His Majesty's ships engaged in the suppression of arms traffic in the Persian Gulf. Ribbon: white with crimson borders and two crimson stripes.
A new Khedive's Sudan medal, having effect from 1910, was awarded by the Khedive in 1911. Obverse: the cypher of the Khedive and the date in Arabic. Reverse: a lion with forepaws resting upon a panel bearing the word " Sudan." Below, an oval native shield and spears. In the background the river Nile with palm trees and the rising sun. Clasps: " Atwot," " S. Kordofan 1910," " Sudan 1912," " Zeraf 1913-14," " Mongalla 1915-16," " Darfur 1916," " Fasher," " Lau-Nuer," " Atwot 1918." The medal without bar was given to troops engaged in operations in the Matong Mts., Mongalla, in 1916; and at various times the medal in bronze without the bar was awarded to certain classes of civilian followers.
II
British World War Medals The issue of medals commemorating service in the World War is naturally the widest ever recorded. The long duration of the war, the fact that almost every part of the civilized world was involved in it, the great numbers of men and women taken into war service in different capacities, and to some extent popular feeling at different periods during and after the war, resulted in somewhat different principles from those of the past being observed in rewarding war service, all the more so as the conventional idea of " campaign " and " battle " ceased in a great measure to afford a guide in laying down regulations. Thus, in addition to the British general services war medal common to all who served in a theatre of war, the Allied and Associated Powers agreed upon a common medal to commemorate the united effort, and, within the British forces, the characteristic services of the original Expeditionary Force, of the men of the Territorial Force who had undertaken obligations and training in peace, of the war volunteers who formed the new armies of 1914-5 and of the mercantile marine were each recognized by the grant, under certain conditions, of a particular star or medal.
The stars and medals awarded and the general conditions qualifying for award are as follows: (i) 1914 Star. - Awarded by King George V. under Army Order 35 o of 1917. This decoration is a four-pointed star in bright bronze on which are superimposed two crossed swords and a laurel wreath. In the centre a scroll with the inscription " Aug. 1914 Nov." Ribbon: red, white and blue, shaded and watered. Granted to all officers, warrant officers, non-commissioned officers and men of the British and Indian forces, including civilian medical practitioners, nursing sisters, nurses and others employed with military hospitals, who actually served in France or Belgium, on the establishment of a unit of the British Expeditionary Force, between Aug. 5 1914 and midnight of Nov. 22-23 1914.
The star was also granted to officers and men of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Naval Air Service, Royal Naval Reserve and Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve who actually served in France or Belgium on the establishment of a unit landed for service on shore between the same dates. By Army Order 361 of 1919, a clasp to the star was authorized for issue to personnel of the naval and military forces who were actually present on duty within range of the enemy's mobile artillery and who were borne on the strength of certain specified units. The clasp is of bronze and bears the inscription " 5th Aug.-22nd Nov. 1914." When only the ribbon of this star is worn in service or undress uniform, the possession of the bar is denoted by a small silver rose affixed to the centre of the ribbon.
(2) 1914-5 Star. - Awarded by King George V. under Army Order 20 of 1919. This decoration is a bronze star, similar in shape and general design to the 1914 star, except that the inscription on the scroll is 1914-15, the words Aug. and Nov. being omitted. Ribbon: identical with that of the 1914 star. Granted to all personnel of the British, Dominion, Colonial and Indian forces, including civilian medical practitioners, nursing sisters, nurses and others employed with military hospitals who actually served on the establishment of a unit of the military forces in certain specified theatres of war between Aug. 5 1914 and Dec. 31 1915. These theatres of war comprised every locality in which troops of the British Empire were engaged against Germany and her allies during the period in question, with the exception that France and Belgium did not constitute a theatre of war for the award of this star till subsequent to midnight Nov. 22-23 1914. Individuals who earned the 1914 star are not eligible for the 1914-15 star.
The star was also granted to (a) all officers and men of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Ro y al Naval Air Service, Royal Naval Reserve, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, Royal Indian Marine and Dominion Naval Forces, who were mobilized and served at sea, or on shore within the specified theatres of military operations; (b) trained pilots and observers and men of the Royal Naval Air Service employed in flying from naval air-stations on overseas patrols; ( c ) mercantile marine officers and men serving under special naval engagements; (d ) canteen staffs who served in a ship of war at sea.
(3) British War Medal 1914-1918
Awarded by King George V. under Army Order 266 of 1919. Obverse: the effigy of the King. Reverse: a representation of St. George on horseback trampling underfoot the eagle shield of the Central Powers. A skull and crossbones in the foreground. Above, the rising sun of victory. The ribbon has an orange watered centre with stripes of white and black at each side and with borders of royal blue. Granted to record the bringing of the war to a successful conclusion and in recognition of the arduous services rendered by H.M. forces.
The medal in silver was awarded to the following classes who either entered a theatre of war on duty, or who left their places of residence and rendered approved service overseas, other than the waters dividing the different parts of the United Kingdom, between Aug. 5 1914 and Nov. II 1918, both dates inclusive. (a) Officers, warrant officers, attested non-commissioned officers and men of the British, Dominion, Colonial and Indian military forces. (b ) Members of women's formations, who were enrolled under a direct contract of service for service with H.M. Imperial Forces. (c ) All who served on staffs of military hospitals and all members of recognized organizations who actually handled sick and wounded. (d ) Members of duly recognized and authorized organizations. (e ) Enrolled and attested followers on the establishment of units of the Indian army.
The medal in bronze was granted to all British subjects who were enrolled in native labour corps and who served in theatres of war. The medal was granted to the R.A.F. under similar conditions and also to personnel of the force who (i.) were actively engaged in the air against the enemy whilst borne on the strength of an operational unit in Great Britain; (ii.) were employed in flying new aircraft to France; (iii.) were on an aircraft-carrying ship.
The navy also participated in the grant of this medal, but the main condition of award differed in that it was given to all naval personnel who performed 28 days' mobilized service, or lost their lives in active operations before completing that period, between Aug. 5 1914 and Nov. II 1918. The medal was also granted to personnel of the mercantile marine who served at sea for not less than six months between Aug. 4 1914 and Nov. I 11918.
(4) Victory Medal
This medal was the outcome of a meeting between the Allied and Associated Powers in Paris in March 1919, when it was agreed that in order to obviate the interchange of commemorative war medals, a medal should be instituted, called the Victory Medal, which should be of similar design for all the Allied and Associated countries, but that the conditions of award should be laid down by each Government. It was arranged that the obverse should represent a winged figure of Victory, full length in the middle of the medal, and full face; on the reverse an inscription " The Great War for Civilization " translated into different languages. The ribbon is identical for all countries and is red in the centre, with yellow, green and violet on either side shaded to form two rainbows. The British issue authorized under Army Order 301 of 1919 conforms to the lines laid down at the Paris meeting and is of light bronze attached to the ribbon by a ring. When first manufactured, the medal was of dull bronze which proved unsatisfactory and the few which had already been distributed were recalled as far as possible, though doubtless a few still remain in private hands. It was granted to (I) the usual classes of military personnel who actually served on the establishment of a unit in certain specified theatres of war; (2) naval personnel who were mobilized or rendered approved service either at sea between midnight Aug. 4-5 1914 and midnight Nov. 11-12 1918, or on the establishment of a unit within a theatre of military operations; (3) personnel of the R.A.F. under similar conditions to the army and with the same additions as already specified for the British War Medal. No clasps were issued with this medal but a small bronze oak leaf is worn on the ribbon by personnel of the naval, military and air forces, who were mentioned in despatches by a commander in the field.
(5) Territorial Force War Medal. - Awarded by King George V. under Army Order 143 of 1920: granted to members of the Territorial Force or Territorial Force Nursing Service who volunteered for service overseas on or before Sept. 30 1914 and who, having been passed as physically fit for service overseas between Aug. 4 and Sept. 30 1914, rendered such service during the war 1914-8, provided that (a) they were serving with the Territorial Force before Aug. 4 1914, or ( b ) had completed a period of not less than four years' service with the Territorial Force before Aug. 4 1914 and rejoined that force on or before Sept. 30 1914. Members of the force who qualified for the award of the 1914 or 1914-5 stars were not eligible for this medal. Ribbon: broad yellow centre flanked on each side by a narrow green stripe; yellow edges.
(6) Mercantile Marine War Medal. - Awarded in 1919 by King George V. The medal is of bronze. Obverse: effigy of King George V. Reverse: a merchant steamer in a rough sea with a sailing-ship and a sinking submarine in the background. Ribbon: red and green with a central stripe of white; granted to personnel of the mercantile marine who qualified for the British War Medal, and who, in addition, served at sea on at least one voyage through a danger zone; also to those who, whilst serving at sea, were captured by the enemy or lost their lives through enemy action or were precluded by disablement through enemy action from further service at sea, before being able to complete their qualifying service for one of the medals.
III. - WAR Medals Of The United States, France, Italy And Japan The war medals issued by the United States prior to igio are described at 18.18. The part played by the United States in the war against Germany in 1917-8 is commemorated by the American issue of the Victory Medal, which is granted to military personnel who served on active duty in the army of the United States at any time between April 6 1917 and Nov. II 1918. The medal is also given to those who served in Siberia or European Russia subsequent to Nov. II 1918. It is interesting to note that a series of b ttle clasps has been awarded for wearing on the ribbon of this medal, the United States being the only country which in 1921 sanctioned the issue of battle clasps. They are divided into two classes: (I) those given for certain major operations, and (2) those given for the occupation of a defensive sector; only one of the latter class is given to any one individual. A small bronze star is worn on the ribbon in service dress uniform for each major operation clasp. For each citation of an officer or man for gallantry in action not warranting the award of a Medal of Honor or a Distinguished Service Cross, a small silver star is worn on the ribbon.
In the number of commemorative war medals France comes second to Great Britain. They are as follows: (I) St. Helena Medal. - A bronze medal granted in 1857 to all survivors of the soldiers and sailors who took part in the wars lasting from 1792 to 1815. Obverse: effigy of Napoleon I. Reverse: the inscription " Campagnes de 1792 a 1815. A ses cornpagnons de gloire, sa derniere pensee. Sainte Helene, 5 Mai 1821." Ribbon: green with narrow red stripes.
(2) Medal for Italy, 1859
A silver medal granted in 1859 to all who took part in the war against Austria in Italy in that year. Obverse: effigy of Napoleon III. Reverse: the names of the following battles: " Montebello," " Palestro," " Turbigo," " Mag- ,? " " " enta, Marignan," Solferino, and the words Campagne d'Italie, 1859." Ribbon: red with narrow white stripes.
(3) China Medal 1861
A silver medal granted in 1861 to those who took part in the China expedition of 1860. Obverse: effigy of Napoleon III. Reverse: the names " Ta-kon," " Chang Kia Wan," " Pa-li-Kao," " Pe-King " and the legend " Expedition de Chine 1860." Ribbon: y ellow, with an inscription in Chinese characters.
(4) Mexico Medal 1862-3
A silver medal awarded in 1863 to those who took part in the expedition to Mexico in 1862-3. Obverse: effigy of Napoleon III. Reverse: the names " Cumbres," " CerroBorrego," " San Lorenzo," " Puebla," " Mexico " and the legend " Expedition du Mexique, 1862-3." Ribbon: white with two diagonal stripes of red and green. In the centre a brown eagle and a green snake.
(5) Tonkin Medal 1883-93. - Instituted in 1885 and granted to all those who took part in operations in French China and neighbouring states between 1883-93. Obverse: female head of the Republic. Reverse: the legend " Tonkin, Chine, Annam, 188 - " " 1885 and an inscription Santay, Bac-Ninh, Fou-Tcheou, " Formose," " Tuyen-Quan," " Pescadores." The naval medal also bears the inscription " Cau-Giai " in addition. Ribbon: yellow, with broad green stripes.
(6) Madagascar Medal
A silver medal first granted in 1886 to those who took part in the Madagascar campaign of 1885. Obverse: female head of the Republic. Reverse: the words " Madagascar 1885-1886." A second medal, similar in design but with the date 1895 on the reverse, was given for the campaign of 1894-5. Those in possession of the first medal were granted a bar only with the date. Ribbon: pale blue and green horizontal stripes.
(7) Dahomey Medal
A silver medal granted in 1892 to those who took part in the Dahomey and Sudan campaigns in previous years. Obverse: female head of the Republic. Reverse: the word " Dahomey." Ribbon: yellow with four broad maroon stripes.
(8) Colonial Medal 1893
A silver medal instituted in 1893 and granted to all who took part in operations in French colonies and protectorates. It is the counterpart of the British general service medals. Obverse: female head of the Republic. Reverse: the terrestrial globe on a trophy of flags with the words " Medaille Coloniale." A bar is always worn on the ribbon supporting the medal, showing the service for which it was awarded. Four gold and numerous silver bars have been issued. Ribbon: pale blue with a broad white stripe in the centre and a narrow one at each end.
(9) Morocco Medal 1909
A silver medal granted in 1909 as a general service medal for operations in Morocco. Obverse: female head of the Republic. Reverse: a military design with the word " Maroc." Numerous bars have been awarded. Ribbon: green with a broad white stripe in the centre and a narrow one at each end.
(To) Medal for War of 1870-71. - A bronze medal awarded in 1911 to all survivors of the war 1870 - I. Obverse: the usual head of the Republic. Reverse: a trophy of arms surmounted by a standard; on a plaque the words " Aux Defenseurs de la Patrie." At the top the date 1870-1871. Volunteers who served with the army and navy during the war received in addition a silver bar inscribed "Engage Volontaire." Ribbon: dark green with four black stripes.
(it) The World War of 1914-8 was commemorated by the issue of the Victory Medal previously described. The conditions of award differ somewhat to those of other countries, it being granted only to various grades of military personnel, nursing sisters and others who served for a minimum period of three months at the front. Naval personnel are also eligible for this medal.
Italy has issued various war medals to commemorate her campaigns, chief among which may be mentioned the Garibaldi Medal of 1860, the Africa War Medal of 1894, the China Medal of 1900 - I and the Libyan War Medal of 1911. The World War is commemorated by the Italian issue of the Victory Medal.
Japan
The principal commemorative medals are: - (i) Medal for Russo-Japanese War of 1904-5. This medal is of light bronze. Obverse: crossed naval and military flags with the Imperial cypher between them. On the reverse a wreath. (2) Medal for war against Germany 1914-8. This medal is of almost black bronze and the design is very similar to that of the previous medal. Ribbon: dark blue with a broad white stripe in the centre. It is awarded to all naval and military personnel who served during the war. (3) The Japanese Victory Medal; also awarded for the war 1914-8 but confined to naval and military personnel who actually took part in active operations against the enemy.
IV.-British Personal Decorations Although all war medals are awarded in a sense individually and personally, it is convenient to regard as personal in a more limited sense an award to an individual either of a " decoration " or of membership of an order, for special acts of gallantry or devotion, and for distinguished and meritorious services performed by him or her.
In 15.851 the principal British orders of knighthood are treated as such. In their other aspect, as rewards for service, they are here assimilated to " decorations," which are awards which do not imply membership of an association. This is because, in fact, the majority of orders are now constituted on a service basis; that is, membership is limited to those who have acquired a claim to it by service, and is itself the reward of that service. Its badges and distinctions are de facto decorations.
In the World War, appointments to the orders of the Bath, St. Michael and St. George, the Indian Empire, and the Star of India, which had long been essentially service orders, were made in all classes on an enlarged scale, corresponding to the wide extension which State service, both military and civil, assumed. The same applies to the Distinguished Service Order. During the war itself two new orders were founded, that of the Companions of Honour, and that of the British Empire. Between 1910 and 1914 the following decorations were founded: The Indian Distinguished Service Medal, 1907. - Instituted in 1907 for rewarding distinguished service in the field of Indian commissioned and non-commissioned officers and men of the Indian regular forces, the reserve of the Indian army, border militia and levies, military police and imperial service troops employed under the Indian Government. In 1917 the grant of the medal was extended to Indian non-combatants engaged on field service and the issue of clasps authorized. Obverse: the effigy of the reigning sovereign. Reverse: a laurel wreath with the words " For Distinguished Service." Ribbon: blue with a maroon centre.
The Egyptian Medal for Bravery, 1913. - A silver medal established in 1913 by the Khedive. Awarded to non-commissioned officers and men of the Egyptian army who distinguish themselves in action. It is equivalent to the British Distinguished Conduct Medal. Obverse: the cypher of the Khedive. Reverse: the words " For Bravery " in English and Arabic. Ribbon: light blue unwatered.
It is convenient here to state the changes which took place after 1910 in decorations already existing.
The Victoria Cross. - Native officers and men of the Indian army were made eligible for the award of the V.C. in 1912. Previously they had only been eligible for the Indian Order of Merit for gallant deeds in action. In 1918 the blue ribbon of the naval V.C. was abolished and the red ribbon made universal for the navy, army, and R.A.F.; and in undress and service dress uniform a miniature of the decoration was authorized to be worn on the ribbon.
A gratuity of £ 20 on discharge or an addition to pension of 6d. per diem is now given to N.C.O.'s and men who have been awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal. In Oct. 1914, the name of the Conspicuous Service Cross was altered to the Distinguished Service Cross, and its award was extended to all naval and marine officers below the relative rank of lieutenantcommander, for meritorious or distinguished services which may not be sufficient to warrant the appointment of such officers to the Distinguished Service Order. Bars were also awarded.
In 1915, a second class of the order of the Royal Red Cross was instituted, and the award of both classes was restricted to those who were actually engaged in nursing duties. The award of a bar to the first class was authorized in 1917. The cross of the first class is of gold, pattee convexed, enamelled red, edged with gold, having on the arms the words Faith, Hope, Charity, and the date 1883. In the centre, in relief, is the royal effigy. Reverse: the royal and imperial crown and cypher. The cross of the second class is of the same shape and size, but is of frosted silver and has superimposed upon it a Maltese cross enamelled red, of about half the size of the cross itself; in the centre, in relief, the royal effigy.
The Territorial Officers' Decoration is awarded to officers of the Territorial Force who have completed 20 years' commissioned service in that force, or in its predecessor, the Volunteer Force, and are recommended for the award. It is an oval wreath of silver having in its centre the royal cypher in silver-gilt. The ribbon is green with a broad yellow centre. The period of war service is, under certain conditions, credited as double for the award. The Territorial Force Efficiency Medal was established as a reward for efficient service for other ranks; it is the equivalent of the former volunteer long-service medal, the higher efficiency requirements of the Territorial Force being recognized by a reduction in the period of qualifying service from 20 years to 12. The ribbon of this medal, originally similar to that of the T.D. but narrower, was later altered to one of green with yellow edges.
The ribbons of the Long Service and Good Conduct (Army ) medal and the Meritorious Service Medal were in 1916 changed to crimson with white edges, in order to distinguish them from that of the Victoria Cross. A further change in 1918 was the addition of a central white stripe to the Meritorious Service Medal to distinguish it from the Long Service Medal. In 1916 the award of the Meritorious Service Medal was extended to all ranks below sergeant.
In 1917 the designations of the Albert medals (sea and land) of the first and second class were altered respectively to " The Albert Medal in Gold " and " The Albert Medal." The orders and decorations newly founded in the World War period are as follows: The Order of the Companions of Honour was instituted in June 1917 and consists of the sovereign and one class of members. Not more than 50 persons, men or women who have rendered distinguished service of national importance, are admitted. The badge of the order is oval-shaped, consisting of a gold medallion with an oak tree; hanging from one branch is a shield of the royal arms, and on the right an armed knight in full armour, mounted on a horse. The badge has a blue border with the motto " In action faithful and in honour clear " in gold letters and is surmounted by the imperial crown. The ribbon is carmine with borders of gold thread.
The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire was instituted in June 1917 to reward war services in all capacities, military and civil. In 1918, in order to mark the distinction between awards for civilian and military services, a military division of the order was created. Broadly speaking, it may be said that the military division is conferred on military personnel for distinguished service other than gallantry in action during war. The order is divided into five classes. The badge of the first, second, third and fourth classes consists of a silver-gilt cross, that of the fifth class being executed in silver. Members of the first and second classes wear a star on the left breast in addition. A silver medal of the order can also be awarded to those persons, not being members of the order, whose services to the Empire warrant such recognition. The ribbon is plain purple, that of the military division being distinguished by a narrow red line down the centre.
The Distinguished Service Medal. - Established in Oct. 1914 by King George V. Obverse: the effigy of King George V. in naval uniform. Reverse: the words " For Distinguished Service," surmounted by a crown and encircled by a wreath of laurel. Ribbon: blue with two broad white stripes in the centre. Awarded to petty officers and men of the Royal Navy, and non-commissioned officers and men of the Royal Marines and all other persons holding corresponding positions in the naval forces who may at any time show themselves to the fore in action and set an example of bravery and resource under fire, but without performing acts of such preeminent bravery as would render them eligible for the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal. Bars are awarded for further services.
The Military Cross. - Instituted in Dec. 1914 by royal warrant. It consists of an ornamental silver cross, on each arm of which is an imperial crown with the imperial cypher " G.R.I." in the centre. Bars are awarded for further services. It is awarded to military officers below the rank of major and to warrant officers in the army, Indian army, or Colonial forces. During the first two years after its institution, this decoration was not confined to service in action, but was also given in recognition of distinguished service at the base or with the administrative branches of the army in theatres of war. After 1916, however, it was confined to those whose services were thought worthy of recognition while under the fire of the enemy. Ribbon: white watered silk with a purple centre.
The Military Medal. - Instituted in March 1916 for award to noncommissioned officers and men of the army for individual or associated acts of bravery in the field. The medal is of silver. Obverse: the ro y al effigy. Reverse: the words " For bravery in the Field " encircled by a wreath and surmounted by the royal cypher and crown. Ribbon: dark blue having in the centre three white and two crimson stripes alternating. Bars are awarded for further acts of bravery in action. The award was subsequently extended to warrant officers and to women, the qualification for the last named being " For bravery and devotion under fire." The Distinguished Flying Cross. - Instituted in 1918 for award to officers and warrant officers of the R.A.F. for acts of valour, courage, or devotion to duty performed while flying in active operations against the enemy. The cross is of silver, terminated in the horizontal and base bars with bombs, the upper bar terminating with a rose, surmounted by another cross composed of aeroplane propellers, charged in the centre with a roundel within a wreath of laurels a rose winged ensigned by an imperial crown, thereon the letters R.A.F. On the reverse the royal cypher above the date 1918, the whole attached to the clasp and ribbon by two stripes one-eighth of an inch wide running at an angle of 45° from left to right. Bars are awarded for further services.
The Distinguished Flying Medal. - Instituted in 1918 for award under similar conditions to the Distinguished Flying Cross, to noncommissioned officers and men of the R.A.F. The medal is of silver, oval-shaped, bearing on the obverse the royal effigy and on the reverse, within a wreath of laurel, a representation of Athena Nike seated on an aeroplane, a hawk rising from her right arm above the words " For Courage." The whole ensigned by a bomb attached to the clasp and ribbon by two wings. Ribbon: violet and white in alternate diagonal stripes one-sixteenth of an inch wide running at an angle of 45° from left to right. Bars are also awarded.
The Air Force Cross. - Instituted in 1918 for award to officers and warrant officers of the R.A.F. for acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty whilst flying, though not in active operations against the enemy, and also to individuals not belonging to the R.A.F. (whether naval, military or civil) who render distinguished service to aviation in actual flying. The cross is of silver and consists of a thunderbolt in the form of a cross. the arms conjoined by wings, the base bar terminating with a bomb, surmounted by another cross composed of aeroplane propellers, the four ends enscribed with the letters G.V.R.I. In the centre a roundel, thereon a representation of Hermes mounted on a hawk in flight bestowing a wreath. Reverse: the royal cypher above the date 1918. The whole ensigned by an imperial crown attached to the clasp and ribbon by two sprigs of laurel. Ribbon: red and white in alternate diagonal stripes oneeighth of an inch wide, running at an angle of 45° from left to right. Bars are awarded for further services.
The Air Force Medal. - Instituted in 1918 for award, under similar conditions to the Air Force Cross, to non-commissioned officers and men of the R.A.F. and to individuals not belonging to that force (whether naval, military or civil) who render distinguished service to aviation in actual flying. The medal is of silver, ovalshaped. Obverse: the royal effigy. Reverse: within a wreath of laurel a representation of Hermes mounted on a hawk in flight bestowing a wreath. The whole ensigned by a bomb attached to the clasp and ribbon by two wings. Ribbon: red and white in alternate diagonal stripes one-sixteenth of an inch wide running at an angle of 453 from left to right. Bars are awarded for further services.
The Military Star of the Sultan Fouad. - Instituted in 1919 for award to officers of the Egyptian army who are mentioned in despatches for merit or for distinguished services on the field of battle or before the enemy. It consists of a five-rayed star suspended from a straight clasp. The obverse is enamelled white, bordered gilt, with a gilt fillet in the centre of each ray. The centre is enamelled red and blue, upon which appears a garland of laurel, surrounding two crossed swords, and surmounted by the Sultan's crown, all in relief and gilt. The reverse is similar, but has in the centre a blue circle surrounded by a gold chaplet bearing in Arabic the inscription " The Military Star of the Sultan Fouad." Bars are awarded for further services. The ribbon is of five equal stripes of blue, chamois, black, chamois, blue.
V.-American And French Personal Decorations The World War of 1917-8 caused the institution in the United States of four new service decorations in addition to the Congressional Medal of Honor reserved for acts of the highest bravery.
(I) Distinguished Service Cross. Army. - Instituted on Jan. 12 1918 for award to military personnel, including women, who distinguish themselves by extraordinary heroism in connexion with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States under circumstances which do not justify the award of the Medal of Honor. The cross is of bronze surcharged with the American spread eagle, and hangs from a blue ribbon with narrow white and red stripes at either edge. Beneath the eagle is a scroll bearing the words " For Valor." A bronze oak leaf is worn on the ribbon to denote a second award.
(2) Distinguished Service Medal. Army. - Instituted on Jan. 12 1918 for award to military personnel, including women, for exceptionally meritorious service to the Government in duty of great responsibility in time of war, or in connexion with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States. The medal is of bronze and bears on the obverse the coat-of-arms of the United States surrounded by a circular ribbon of blue enamel bearing the words " For Distinguished Service " and the date " MCMXVIII." Ribbon: scarlet, in the centre a broad stripe of white, with a narrow stripe of dark blue on each side of it. Further acts of bravery are denoted by a bronze oak leaf worn on the ribbon.
(3) Distinguished Service Medal. Navy. - Awarded to naval personnel who, since April 6 1917, distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service to the Government in a duty of great responsibility. The medal is of bronze. Obverse: a foul anchor, placed perpendicularly; on the right a sprig of laurel. The words Distinguished Service " in raised letters round the top circumference; in the background a squadron of ships with the sun rising over the horizon. Reverse: a plaque for the name of the recipient superimposed upon a sprig of laurel. The clasp for suspension from the ribbon shows the American eagle standing upon a scroll with the date " 1917-18." Ribbon: blue with a central'stripe of yellow. An emblem is worn on the ribbon to denote a second award. Enlisted or enrolled personnel who receive the medal are granted a monthly increase in pay of two dollars.
(4) Navy Cross. - Awarded to naval personnel for extraordinary heroism or distinguished service since April 6 1917 in cases not justifying the award of either the Medal of Honor or the Distinguished Service Medal. The decoration is a bronze cross patee convexed with points of laurel at the junction of the limbs. In the centre are crossed foul anchors and the letters " U.S.N." Ribbon: blue with a central narrow stripe of white. An emblem is worn on the ribbon to denote a second award. Enlisted or enrolled personnel who receive the cross are granted $2 a month increase in pay.
The principal personal decorations in France are as follows: The Medaille Militaire. - Established in 1852. It is only awarded to general officers in command of armies and to non-commissioned officers and men of the army and navy who specially distinguished themselves in action. The decoration is of rather complicated design. In the centre of the obverse is the gilt female head of the Republic on a roughened gilt ground, surrounded by a narrow band of blue enamel bearing the words " Republique Francaise 1870 " in gilt letters. On the reverse "Valeur et Discipline." Above the medal is a trophy of arms. Ribbon: orange with green edges.
The Legion of Honour is dealt with in 15.863.
The Croix de Guerre. - Established in 1915 to commemorate individual mentions in despatches during the war 1914-8. The cross was awarded to soldiers or sailors of all ranks, including officers, who were mentioned in orders of the day for an individual feat of arms. The different classes of orders (regimental, divisional, etc.) for which the cross was awarded are denoted by a bronze laurel branch or different kinds of stars attached to the ribbon, which is green with narrow red stripes.
VI.-Personal Decorations Of Other Countries The revolution in Russia, Germany and Austria-Hungary closed the history of many of the older orders; but both those still existing and those which have ceased to exist were given largely for war services during the World War, and they are here briefly dealt with as decorations.
Italy
The most important of the Italian service orders and decorations are as follows (I) Medals for military valour. - These medals are awarded for special individual acts of bravery to both officers and men of the army and navy. The medals are of three classes, gold, silver and bronze, but the first is rare.
(2) Cross for merit in war
A bronze cross bearing on one side the words " Merito di Guerra" surmounted by the royal crown and initials. Reverse: a star surrounded by rays. Awarded to those whose conduct has been meritorious for some considerable period during war, but who have not performed some exceptionally gallant action deserving of the medals for military valour.
(3) Military Order of Savoy. - Instituted in 1815, consisting of five classes. Awarded for specially distinguished services in war and for exceptional services in times of peace. The decoration consists of a cross resting on a wreath of laurel.
(4) Order of the Crown of Italy. - Established in 1868 to commemorate the annexation of Venetia and the unity of Italy. There are five classes. The badge consists of a gold cross patee convexed enamelled white, edged gold, with gold love knots between the limbs. In the centre on a blue enamelled plaque, edged gold, is a golden representation of the Iron Crown.
(5) Order of Saint Maurice and Saint Lazarus. - Founded in 1434. There are five classes. The badge consists of a Maltese cross, placed saltirewise, vert edged gold, with gold knobs on the points for St. Lazarus; surmounted by a cross botone enamelled white, edged gold, for St. Maurice. The badge of the first four classes has the royal crown above it.
Russia
(i) The Order of St. George, probably the best-known of all Russian decorations, was founded in 1769 by the Empress Catherine II. for rewarding distinguished bravery in action. It consists of a gold, white enamelled cross, patee, with, in the centre, a representation of St. George fighting the dragon. There are four different grades and the ribbon is orange and black. (2) Order of St. Anne (three classes and various medals); the cross is of crimson enamel and the ribbon carmine with narrow gold edges. (3) Order of St. Stanislas (three classes); cross, ribbon red and white. (4) St. Vladimir (four classes); cross, black enamel, ribbon red and black.
Serbia
(I) Order of the White Eagle. Instituted in 1883, consisting of five classes: knight grand cross, grand officer, commander, officer and companion. The badge consists of a gold double-headed eagle surmounted by a crown. (2) Order of St. Sava. Instituted in 1883, consisting of five classes. Awarded principally in recognition of valuable sanitary and medical services with the army. (3) Medals for bravery. These are in gold and silver according to class.
Greece
(i) Order of the Redeemer. Instituted in 1829, consisting of five classes: grand cross, grand officer, commander, officer and knight. (2) Military Cross. This is the highest award for services in the field. It was instituted in 1917 and consists of three classes.
Rumania
(I) Order of the Star of Rumania. Instituted in 1877 to commemorate the participation of Rumania in the RussoTurkish War. There are five classes: knights grand cross, knights commanders, commanders, officers and chevaliers. (2) Order of the Crown. Instituted in 1881. There are five classes as above.
Belgium
(i) Order of the Crown of Belgium. Instituted in 1897 for honouring those who distinguish themselves in artistic, literary or scientific work; in industrial or commercial activity or by their devotion in works of African civilization. There are five classes of the order and a medal. ( 2) Order of Leopold. Instituted in 1832, consisting of five classes. This order is sometimes conferred upon military officers for service in the field. (3) Croix de Guerre. Instituted in 1915 for award to those who are mentioned in despatches and for acts of courage, devotion and valour on the field of battle.
Japan
The principal Japanese military decoration is The Order of the Golden Kite, instituted in 1891 and awarded solely for acts of very distinguished bravery performed in action by officers and men of the army and navy. There are seven classes. It consists of an eight-pointed star edged with gold or silver according to class, upon which is placed a species of St. Andrew's cross in blue enamel. On the top of the decoration is a golden kite with wings spread. Ribbon: green, with a white stripe at each edge. The chief remaining decorations are The Order of the Rising Sun and The Order of the Sacred Treasure (women), but these are not confined to naval and military persons.
Germany
While the orders of the various states (which were numerous) were conferred on individuals for war service, the principal decorations were, with one exception, Prussian decorations conferred by the emperor, in his capacity as king of Prussia, upon Germans of all federal states. These Prussian decorations which became in effect German were: - the order Pour le Merite and the Iron Cross. The ribbon of both is black with white edging (the Prussian colours). The Iron Cross of the higher class was worn without a ribbon. One award was made of the Iron Cross with gold star, perhaps the rarest of all military decorations. This was to FieldMarshal von Hindenburg, and the only previous recipient had been Prince Blucher. Awards of the Iron Cross of 1914 were not made to those who held the Iron Cross of 1870. who received a bar instead.
A decoration given for auxiliary war services, both to military and to civil personnel, was the Verdienstkreuz filr Kriegshilfe. This, which though Prussian was regarded from the outset as purely a German decoration, is a cross in silver-grey metal with a ribbon of the German national colours - silver, with narrow black stripes and red and black edges. (R. E. F.)
These files are public domain.
Chisholm, Hugh, General Editor. Entry for 'Medals and Decorations'. 1911 Encyclopedia Britanica. https://www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/eng/bri/m/medals-and-decorations.html. 1910.
