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ОглавлениеIMPERIAL GALLANTRY DECORATIONS
For much of Canada’s post-Confederation history, the imperial gallantry decorations served as the primary mechanism for recognition of gallant or brave conduct. Their use tended to be restricted to wartime, namely, the South Africa War (1899–1901), the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War, and to a very limited extent, U.N. peacekeeping missions. Unlike other honours, many gallantry decorations and awards were accompanied by an annuity, the amount and criteria for which changed over the history of the decoration.
The development of imperial gallantry decorations and awards was sporadic and occurred over more than a century. Most honours were not created as part of an overall system; rather, they were established to fill an immediate gap and to ensure that brave service in a particular field was recognized. This is in contrast to the Canadian honours system in which developments have tended to come in tranches, beginning with the creation of the Decorations for Bravery in 1972, followed by the Military Valour Decorations in 1993. The Canadian honours system has benefited immeasurably from the experiences of our Commonwealth cousins.
Looking at the system of imperial gallantry decorations and medals today, it seems quite odd that the honours a serviceman was eligible for depended largely on his rank and in what service he was in. This is in stark contrast to the Canadian honours system where the same set of awards is used for all ranks and all services. Indeed, after the First World War and the introduction of the service- and rank-specific gallantry awards, namely, the Distinguished Service Cross, Military Cross, Distinguished Flying Cross, and their medal equivalents the Distinguished Service Medal, Military Medal, and Distinguished Flying Medal, it was the wish of King George V that these awards, along with the Distinguished Conduct Medal and Conspicuous Gallantry Medal, be abolished and replaced with a pair of new honours. This had been recommended by the Report of the Committee on Honours and Rewards in War, which in 1923 had proposed the creation of a Distinguished Service Decoration and a Distinguished Service Medal. Despite the King’s strong support and that of the committee, the three services jealously resisted any changes.
Throughout the twentieth century there was an increasing requirement to recognize civilians who acted gallantly. It was no longer just members of the military who were eligible for official recognition. A variety of organizations in Britain such as the Royal Humane Society, Lloyd’s of London, and the Society for the Protection of Life from Fire, sought to recognize civilian bravery; however, there were no specific honours of the Crown bestowed to recognize similar acts until the Albert Medal was created in 1866. This was followed by the Edward Medal, the King’s Police Medal, the Empire Gallantry Medal, and then the George Cross and the George Medal. The Edward Medal is of particular interest since it was intended for labourers and those working in difficult circumstances at the bottom end of the social scale. The use of the Order of the British Empire and British Empire Medal to recognize gallantry is also worthy of consideration and has been examined in chapter 4.
In Canada the George Medal, Albert Medal, Air Force Medal, Edward Medals, King’s Police Medal, King’s Commendation for Brave Conduct, and King’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air were awarded sporadically during peacetime, though such awards were rare. The gallantry decorations and medals bestowed upon Canadians prior to 1967 differ from the modern Military Valour Decorations and decorations for bravery in that the branch of the military one served in — RCN, Army, or RCAF — and whether or not you were an officer determined the honour for which you were eligible. This was true for all of the gallantry awards, save the Victoria Cross, Albert Medal, George Cross, and George Medal, which were totally rank- and service-“blind” and could be earned by anyone. The Royal Red Cross was unique in that it was only bestowed upon women.
After the end of the Second World War, the restrictive nature of Canadian honours policy almost precluded any civilian recognition, while those in the military remained eligible for gallantry awards — but not those for meritorious service such as the Order of the Bath or Order of the British Empire. In 1956 a more liberal honours policy was introduced via Cabinet Directive No. 30 (see chapter 3). This allowed for civilians to be recognized for their gallant acts with the George Cross, the George Medal, the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct, and the Order of the British Empire with gallantry emblem. Members of the Canadian Armed Forces remained eligible for the host of service- and rank-specific gallantry decorations.
All except one of the decorations and awards covered in this chapter have been supplanted by a variety of Canadian honours in the post-1967 period, the exception being the Mention in Dispatches, though it was revived in a Canadian form in 1990. The Canadian Victoria Cross, Cross of Valour, Military Valour Decorations, Decorations for Bravery, and Meritorious Service Decorations, along with the Order of Military Merit and Order of Merit of the Police Forces, overlap in criteria and purpose with those honours examined in this chapter. In 1993 the British reformed their honours system to be rank-blind, in that those who, on account of not being officers, were once only eligible for the DCM, CGM, DSM, MM, DFM, and AFM are now eligible for the equivalent that were once only conferred on officers.
The number of each honour bestowed has been taken from the important work done by Surgeon-Commander J.F. Blatherwick, CM, OBC, CD, and Hugh Halliday, who have devoted years to compiling the names and details of so many brave Canadians.
The Victoria Cross
Origins: Queen Victoria created the Victoria Cross following the end of the Crimean War in 1856 to recognize the most outstanding acts of gallantry. The impetus behind the establishment of the VC seems to be, in part, connected to discussions in Parliament and in the press that called for a reward to recognize soldiers and officers who had rendered daring, brave, and gallant acts throughout the two-year war with Russia. While officers were eligible for appointment to the Order of the Bath, men for the award of the Distinguished Conduct Medal and sailors for the award of the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal, established in 1854 and 1855 respectively, there was little in the way of an honours system that sought to recognize a diverse array of military and civil acts of the highest order.
Only one VC was awarded for actions on Canadian soil, that to Private Timothy O’Hea of the Rifle Brigade. O’Hea extinguished a fire in an ammunition train during the Fenian Raid of 1866 in Danville, Quebec. This award was highly unusual since O’Hea’s gallantry was not rendered in the face of the enemy.
Victoria Cross obverse.
Only five other VCs were awarded under similar circumstances of “extreme danger, such as the occurrence of a fire on board ship … or under any other circumstances in which, through courage and devotion displayed, life or public property might be saved.”[1] Since 1881 the VC can only be awarded for gallantry in the face of an enemy.
Canadians received a total of 94 of the 1,357 Victoria Crosses awarded between its inception and 2014.[2] There are no Canadian recipients still living. The first Canadian to receive it was Alexander Dunn, a native of Upper Canada, who displayed outstanding valour during the famous Charge of the Light Brigade at Balaclava in the Crimean War. The second VC to be awarded to a Canadian was also the first conferred on a person of colour: William Hall of Nova Scotia received it for service in the Indian Mutiny while serving in the Royal Navy. Perhaps the most famous Canadian VC recipient is Billy Bishop, the noted Great War flying ace and later air marshal in the Royal Canadian Air Force. The VC was replaced with the Canadian VC (see chapter 18).
Criteria: 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.
Insignia: A bronze straight-armed cross pattée with raised edges, measuring 38 mm across. The obverse depicts a lion guardant standing upon the Royal Crown, and below the crown a scroll bears the inscription FOR VALOUR. The reverse is plain with raised edges. The insignia was most likely designed by H.H. Armstead of Hancocks.
Suspender: A small semicircle with a hole in the centre is located on the uppermost arm of the cross. Through this passes a small bronze link connected to a V below a straight bar ornamented with laurel leaves. On the reverse of the bar is engraved the rank, name, and unit of the recipient.
Victoria Cross reverse.
Ribbon: A crimson ribbon, 38 mm wide. A recipient wears a single miniature of the VC on his undress ribbon. A second award is denoted by a second miniature VC worn on the undress ribbon. A blue ribbon was used for naval awards until 1918.
Bars: Additional awards of the VC are signified by a bronze bar ornamented with laurel leaves.
Naming: Hand-engraved capitals on the reverse of the suspender with the recipient’s name and rank and date of action in the centre of the reverse.
Postnominals: VC.
Other: Hancocks & Co produced numbered replicas made from commercial bronze.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 94
• 4 pre–South African War.
• 70 First World War.
• 16 Second World War.
The George Cross
Origins: At the beginning of the Second World War there was a variety of honours that recognized gallant or brave acts rendered in situations not necessarily in the face of the enemy. The Empire Gallantry Medal, Albert Medal, and Edward Medal all existed to recognize courageous acts, primarily in non-combat settings. The intensity of the air war being waged on the United Kingdom, and the greatly enhanced role of civilians and those working on the home front, necessitated the creation of a decoration on the same level as the Victoria Cross,
George Cross obverse.
George Cross reverse.
though for non-combat situations, to recognize both civilians and those serving in the mili-tary who rendered outstanding acts of gallantry. The George Cross and George Medal were both created by King George VI in September 1940; indeed, the King took a personal role in the design of the insignia and development of the criteria pertaining to the awards. With the creation of the GC, the Empire Gallantry Medal was cancelled and all living holders of the EGM were permitted to exchange their insignia for a GC. In 1971 all living recipients of the Albert Medal and Edward Medal were invited to exchange their insignia for a GC.
Criteria: To recognize acts of the greatest heroism or of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme danger.
Insignia: A silver Geneva cross 45 mm wide and tall, the obverse depicting in the centre St. George slaying the dragon, circumscribed by the legend FOR GALLANTRY and a small rose at the base. The angle of each arm of the cross contains the Royal Cypher of King George VI, GRI. The reverse is plain. The GC was designed by George VI and F.W. Barry.
Suspender: A slotted bar 39 mm wide displaying laurel leaves. A small eyelet is attached to the bottom of the bar through which passes an oblong ring that attaches to another eyelet on the top of the cross.
Ribbon: A garter blue ribbon 38 mm wide. A small silver GC is worn in the centre of the undress ribbon.
Bars: None to Canadians.
Group of medals to Colonel A.R.C. Butson, GC, OMM, CD.
Naming: Engraved capitals, number, and abbreviated rank (if any) along with full given name, surname, and date the award was announced in the London Gazette, all hand-engraved in capitals.
Postnominals: GC.
Other: Replaced by the Cross of Valour.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 10.2 were exchanged from Albert Medals while 1 was converted from an Empire Gallantry Medal).
The Albert Medal
Albert Medal for Gallantry at Sea in gold obverse.
Origins: Established by Queen Victoria in 1866 as a single-level honour, the Albert Medal was broadened by 1867 into a two-class decoration to recognize acts of gallantry at sea. In 1877 the Albert Medal was expanded in scope to include acts of gallantry on land. From its inception this medal was open to both civilians and members of the military and was the first official honour bestowed by the Crown intended to recognize brave acts rendered by civilians. As noted by P.E. Abbott and J.M.A. Tamplin, “the standard of gallantry qualifying for an award has always been very high and it seems that the criterion adopted has been that the recipient’s risk of death had to be greater than chances of survival, and that in the case of the gold medal [1st class] the risk had to be altogether exceptional.”[3]
Albert Medal for Gallantry at Sea in bronze obverse.
There being a significant degree of overlap between the criteria of this award and the George Cross and George Medal, awards of the Albert Medal in Gold ceased in November 1949. Awards of the Albert Medal (formerly known as the AM 2nd class) ceased in 1971. Although initially divided into two classes, 1st and 2nd, King George V approved a change in 1917 that designated the Albert Medal 1st class the “Albert Medal in Gold,” while the Albert Medal 2nd class became simply the “Albert Medal.”
Criteria: The criteria can be divided into two parts, dependent on whether or not the act of bravery was rendered at sea or on land:
• Gallantry at Sea: To recognize daring and heroic actions performed by mariners and others to prevent the loss of life and to save the lives of those who are in danger of perishing by reason of wrecks and perils of the sea; the 1st class being confined to cases of extreme and heroic daring, while the 2nd class being limited to other acts of heroic daring.
• Gallantry on Land: to recognize daring and heroic actions performed on land to prevent the loss of life and to save the lives of those who are in danger of perishing; the 1st class being confined to cases of extreme and heroic daring, while the 2nd class being limited to other acts of heroic daring.
Albert Medal for Gallantry at Sea in bronze reverse.
Insignia (for Gallantry at Sea): An oval-shaped gold (1st class/in gold) or bronze (2nd class/Albert Medal) insignia 32 mm wide and 38 mm high, bearing in the centre a monogram of the letters V and A interlaced (for Victoria and Albert) with an upright anchor, the background enamelled in translucent blue with a starburst pattern beneath, the entire device encircled by a garter belt bearing the text FOR GALLANTRY IN SAVING LIFE AT SEA. The insignia is topped with the crown worn by Prince Albert. The reverse is plain other than naming details. The reverse bears the text PRESENTED IN THE NAME OF HIS/HER MAJESTY or AWARDED BY HIS/HER MAJESTY along with details of the recipient and details of the gallant action.
Insignia (for Gallantry on Land): An oval-shaped gold (1st class/in gold) or bronze (2nd class) Albert Medal insignia 32 mm wide and 38 mm high, bearing in the centre a monogram of the letters V and A, the background enamelled in translucent red with a starburst pattern beneath, the entire device encircled by a garter belt bearing the text FOR GALLANTRY IN SAVING LIFE ON LAND. The reverse is the same as that of the Albert Medal for saving life at sea.
Suspender: A ring 11 mm in diameter passes through the orb of the crown through which the ribbon passes. The ring is gold for the 1st class and bronze for the 2nd class.
Ribbon: Four different ribbons were issued, and they were dependent on the class of award and division (sea or land):
• Albert Medal 1st Class (Sea): Watered white, 35 mm wide with 5 garter blue stripes 3 mm wide.
• Albert Medal 1st Class (Land): Watered white, 35 mm wide with 5 red stripes 3 mm wide.
• Albert Medal 2nd Class (Sea): Watered white, 35 mm wide with a central garter blue stripe 8 mm wide.
• Albert Medal 2nd Class (Land): Watered white, 35 mm wide with a central red stripe 8 mm wide.
Albert Medal for Gallantry on Land in bronze obverse.
Bars: Provision was made for the bestowal of a bar; however, none were ever awarded.
Naming: Engraved in upper and lower case, bearing the full given and surname of the recipient along with details of the action.
Postnominals: AM.
Albert Medal for Gallantry on Land in bronze reverse.
Other: Presented in a rectangular maroon leatherette case embossed with the Royal Cypher of the reigning sovereign on the lid.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 22 (14 2nd class for gallantry at sea, 1 1st class for gallantry on land, 7 2nd class for gallantry on land). In addition to this, 2 1st-class and 2 2nd-class Albert Medals for gallantry at sea were awarded for the Halifax Explosion to members of the Royal Navy.
The Empire Gallantry Medal
Empire Gallantry Medal obverse.
Origins: The Empire Gallantry Medal was created by King George V in 1922 to replace the Medal of the Order of the British Empire. While originally styled “The Medal of the Order of the British Empire (for Gallantry),” this was superseded by the more elegant sounding Empire Gallantry Medal. This medal was cancelled in 1940 and was superseded by the George Cross. In 1971 living recipients of the EGM were permitted to exchange their awards for a George Cross. Only one person associated with Canada was awarded the EGM, Aircraftsman 1st Class Ernest Frost, who served in the Royal Air Force. In total only 130 were awarded for the entire British Empire.
Criteria: Awarded for acts of gallantry.
Insignia: A circular silver medal 36 mm in diameter, the obverse depicting a seated effigy of Britannia holding a trident and circumscribed by the text FOR GOD AND THE EMPIRE with GALLANTRY at the base. The reverse displays the Royal Cypher surmounted by a crown in the centre (GRIV) surrounded by four lions. The reverse of the medal was changed following the death of King George V and subsequently displayed the Royal Cypher (GRI) surmounted by a crown in the centre surrounded by two lions on each side with the text INSTITUTED BY KING GEORGE V. Recipients of the EGM wore a silver laurel branch on the ribbon and undress ribbon of the medal to signify that the award was for gallantry.
Ribbon: Same as for the British Empire Medal.
Suspender: A claw suspender composed of a trio of stylized oak leaves attached to a straight suspension bar.
Bars: The EGM could be awarded with a bar; none to Canadians.
Naming: Engraved capitals, full given name and surname.
Postnominals: EGM.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 1.
The Distinguished Conduct Medal
Distinguished Conduct Medal trophy arms obverse.
Origins: The Distinguished Conduct Medal was created during the Crimean War to recognize gallant acts rendered by soldiers and non-commissioned officers serving in the army. The DCM was created to meet the need to grant “an official gallantry medal.”[4] Queen Victoria established the DCM in 1854, and it endured a variety of changes over its nearly 150-year history. With the creation of the Victoria Cross in 1856, the DCM became the second-highest gallantry award open to those of warrant officer rank and below. A special dominion and colonial issue of the DCM was created in 1894; however, none were awarded under the regulations of the 1894 Royal Warrant, though a number of specimens are known to exist. The modern Canadian equivalent is the Star of Military Valour.
Criteria: Awarded to warrant officers, non-commissioned officers and men in recognition of distinguished conduct in the field.
Insignia: A circular silver medal 36 mm in diameter; there have been six obverse types awarded to Canadians:
• Edward VII type: Edward VII uncrowned in a field marshal’s uniform circumscribed by the legend EDWARDVS VII REX IMPERATOR.
• George V 1st type: George V uncrowned in a field marshal’s uniform circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS V BRITT: OMN: REX ET IND:IMP:.
• George V 2nd type: George V crowned in coronation robes circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS V BRITT: OMN: REX ET IND:IMP:.
• George VI 1st type: George VI crowned circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI D:G: BR: OMN: REX ET INDIAE IMP:.
• George VI 2nd type: George VI crowned circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI DEI GRA: BRITT. OMN: REX FID: DEF+.
Distinguished Conduct Medal Edward VII obverse.
There were two reverse types of this medal awarded to Canadians:
• 1st type: plain with CANADA arched above the text FOR DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT IN THE FIELD displayed on 4 lines with a decorative broken line at the base.
• 2nd type: plain with the text FOR DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT IN THE FIELD displayed on 4 lines with a decorative broken line at the base.
Suspender: A swivelling claw-footed suspender with an ornate scroll bar.
Ribbon: A crimson ribbon 32 mm in width divided in the centre by a 10 mm stripe of dark blue.
Bars: A silver bar 33 mm wide with raised edge displaying laurel leaves in the centre slides on the ribbon.
Distinguished Conduct Medal George VI 1st type obverse.
Distinguished Conduct Medal reverse.
Naming: Impressed capitals, number, abbreviated rank, initials, surname, and unit.
Postnominals: DCM.
Other: One Canadian issue of the “trophy of arms” DCM is known to have sold at public auction; however, further details of this medal are not known. The CANADA reverse is only known to have been issued as specimens. The George V 2nd type was issued to a very small number of Canadians who earned the DCM during the First World War and had their medals replaced (due to loss or theft) during the 1930s. No Elizabeth II issues of this medal were awarded to Canadians. In 1993 the British replaced this decoration with the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 2,132, 38 1st bars and 1 2nd bar.
• South Africa: 16.
• First World War: 1,947 (36 1st bars; 1 2nd bar).
• Second World War: 162 (1 1st bar).
• Korean War: 7 (1 1st bar).
The Conspicuous Gallantry Medals
Conspicuous Gallantry Medal George V obverse.
Origins: The Conspicuous Gallantry Medal was established by Queen Victoria initially in 1855 as a modified version of the Meritorious Service Medal with a special reverse displaying the text FOR CONSPICUOUS GALLANTRY. Initially, this medal was awarded only to ratings and petty officers of the Royal Navy and the equivalent ranks in the Royal Marines for conspicuous gallantry during the Crimean War but was discontinued after the establishment of the Victoria Cross in 1856. The decoration was revived in 1874 toward the end of the Ashanti War. Being one grade below the Victoria Cross, very few were awarded.
A Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (Air) was established on January 15, 1943, to fill the gap of recognition that existed for non-commissioned officers and airmen between the Distinguished Flying Medal and the Victoria Cross. While the navy had the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (Sea) and the army the Distinguished Conduct Medal, there was no 2nd-level gallantry award for those serving in the various Commonwealth air forces. It is no coincidence that this decoration was created during one of the most intense periods of air operations in the history of modern warfare. The Star of Military Valour has replaced the CGM (see chapter 18).
Conspicuous Gallantry Medal for Air George VI obverse.
Conspicuous Gallantry Medal reverse.
Criteria: Dependent on branch of service. For the navy it was awarded to recognize seamen and non-commissioned officers who distinguished themselves by acts of conspicuous gallantry in action with the enemy. For the air force it was awarded to recognize airmen and non-commissioned officers who distinguished themselves by acts of conspicuous gallantry while flying in active operations against the enemy.
Insignia: A circular silver medal 36 mm in diameter, the obverse carrying a crowned effigy of King George VI circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI D:G: BR: OMN: REX ET INDIAE IMP:. The reverse displays a Victorian-style Royal Crown at the top and the text FOR CONSPICUIOUS GALLANTRY on three lines with a small decorative broken line at the bottom, the entire text and crown encompassed between two branches of a laurel wreath.
Suspender: A swivelling claw-footed suspender with a straight bar.
Ribbon: Two separate ribbons were issued with this medal, the colour of ribbon being dependent on whether the medal was bestowed for action at sea or in the air.
• Sea: A white ribbon 32 mm wide edged with 3 mm of dark blue on each side.
• Air: A pale blue ribbon 32 mm wide edged with 3 mm of dark blue on each side.
Bars: None to Canadians.
Naming: Engraved or impressed capitals, number, abbreviated rank, initials, surname, and RCN or RCAF.
Postnominals: CGM.
Other: In 1993 the British replaced this decoration with the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 21 (2 sea and 19 flying). All Second World War Awards.
The Royal Red Cross
Royal Red Cross George V obverse.
Origins: Created by Queen Victoria in April 1883 to reward nurses serving in military theatres or settings, the decoration was expanded to include a junior award, known as the Associate Royal Red Cross, in 1915. In 1917 provisions were made for the bestowal of a bar to the Royal Red Cross (holders of the Associate Royal Red Cross are promoted to the RRC in place of receiving a bar). The 1st class is formally known as a Member of the Royal Red Cross, while the 2nd class is formally known as an Associate of the Royal Red Cross.
Associate Royal Red Cross George V obverse.
Throughout the late Victorian period there was a gradual professionalization of the military medical services, which had largely been attached to naval and military organizations in an ad hoc manner up to this point. The pre-eminent role of women in providing nursing services — one of the most notable being Florence Nightingale during the Crimean War — required that an appropriate reward be developed to recognize the special services and skills rendered by women in medical care provision roles. Men were, of course, eligible for a host of gallantry decorations and appointment to various orders in recognition of their service; however, women were largely omitted from the honours system, a trend that began to change with the establishment of the Royal Red Cross, and later the Order of the British Empire, which was from the outset bestowed upon both sexes.
Associate Royal Red Cross reverse.
Criteria: Awarded to those who have shown exceptional devotion and competency in the performance of nursing duties over a continuous and long period of time, or who have performed some very exceptional acts of bravery and devotion at their posts of duty. The Royal Red Cross (Member) was awarded to fully trained nurses of an officially recognized nursing service, with the overall membership limited to a maximum of 2 percent of the total nurses serving, while the Associate of the Royal Red Cross (Associate) in addition to being open to fully trained nurses was also open to assistant nurses, nurse probationers, Voluntary Aid Detachment personnel, and those serving in a recognized nursing service. The overall membership of the ARRC was limited to a maximum of 5 percent of the total nurses serving. Until 1976 both awards were limited to women only. Appointments to the Order of Military Merit or the Meritorious Service Decorations are the equivalent modern awards.
Insignia: Member of the Royal Red Cross: a gold cross pattée 35 mm in width, the obverse enamelled in translucent red bearing in the centre the effigy of the reigning Sovereign. The reverse carries on each arm one of the words FAITH, HOPE, CHARITY, with the date 1883 on the lowermost arm. The reverse is plain other than the Royal Cypher of the reigning Sovereign, which is displayed in the centre.
Associate of the Royal Red Cross: a frosted silver cross pattée 35 mm in width, the obverse enamelled in translucent red bearing in the centre the effigy of the reigning Sovereign. The reverse carries on each arm one of the words FAITH, HOPE, CHARITY, with the date 1883 on the lowermost arm. The centre of the reverse carries the Royal Cypher of the reigning Sovereign.
There have been three obverse types awarded to Canadians (both RRC and ARRC):
• Victoria veiled effigy.
• George V uncrowned effigy.
• George VI uncrowned effigy.
There have been four reverse types awarded to Canadians (both RRC and ARRC):
• Victoria: VRI.
• George V: GRI.
• George VI 1st type: GRI.
• George VI 2nd type: GVIR.
Suspender: A ring is attached to an eyelet mounted on top of the insignia. Through this ring passes a sewn piece of ribbon that is affixed to the bow.
Ribbon: A garter blue ribbon 26 mm side edged on each wide with 6 mm of red.
Bars: A gold bar with red enamel.
Naming: None. Insignia awarded after 1939 are engraved with the year of the award on the reverse.
Postnominals: RRC or ARRC.
Other: All insignia awarded to Canadians were manufactured by Garrard & Co.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 124 RRC and 4 1st bars, 410 ARRC.
• Royal Red Cross
ɣ South Africa: 1.
ɣ First World War: 66, 4 1st bars.
ɣ Second World War: 56.
ɣ Korean War: 1.
• Associate Royal Red Cross
ɣ First World War: 275, 17 elevations.
ɣ Second World War: 134, 3 elevations.
ɣ Korean War: 1, 1 elevation to RRC.
The Distinguished Service Cross
Distinguished Service Cross George VI 1st type obverse.
Distinguished Service Cross reverse.
Origins: Originally styled “The Conspicuous Service Cross,” this decoration was created in 1901 to recognize subordinate officers and warrant officers serving in the naval forces for distinguished services in the face of the enemy. The criteria were changed in 1914 to make all officers holding the rank of lieutenant-commander and below eligible for the decoration. A bar was instituted in 1916. Until 1918 the DSC was also used to recognize those serving in the Royal Naval Air Service. The modern Canadian equivalent is the Medal of Military Valour.
Criteria: To recognize those who render meritorious or distinguished services in the face of the enemy.
Insignia: A matte silver cross pattée 40 mm in width bearing the Royal Cypher in the centre circumscribed by a raised circle. There have been three obverse types awarded to Canadians:
• George V issue: GRI in script.
• George VI 1st type: GRI in block letters.
• George VI 2nd type: GVIR in script.
• Elizabeth II issue: EIIR in block letters.
The reverse is plain, occasionally found with British sterling hallmarks impressed on the lower arm.
Suspender: An eyelet is mounted on top of the cross through which passes a heavy gauge ring 19 mm in diameter through which the ribbon passes.
Ribbon: A navy blue ribbon 35 mm wide with a central white stripe 11 mm wide.
Bars: A plain matte silver bar with ends flared in the same fashion as the DSC insignia, with a Tudor Crown in the centre.
Naming: None, though privately engraved examples do exist. Insignia and bars presented after 1940 are dated with the year of the award on the lower part of the reverse.
Postnominals: DSC.
Other: Insignia awarded to Canadians were all made by Garrard & Co. or Spink & Son.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 131 (14 1st bars, 3 2nd bars).
• First World War: 1.
• Second World War: 121 (17 1st bars, 3 2nd bars).
• Korean War: 9 (1 1st bar).
The Military Cross
Military Cross George VI 1st type obverse.
Origins: The Military Cross was established by King George V in December 1914 to recognize distinguished and meritorious services rendered by officers holding the rank of captain or below and warrant officers. Until 1918 the MC was also used to recognize those serving in the Royal Flying Corps.
Criteria: For distinguished and meritorious service. In 1920 the Royal Warrant was changed to specify that the MC could only be given for gallant and distinguished services in action. This was in part in response to the fact that during the First World War a number of MCs were bestowed upon officers for services not necessarily rendered in the face of the enemy. The modern Canadian equivalent is the Medal of Military Valour.
Insignia: A plain silver cross 45 mm wide and tall bearing at the end of each arm a Tudor Crown, the centre of the cross displaying a smaller cross and the Royal Cypher. Four different obverse types have been awarded to Canadians:
• George V issue: GRI (overlapping Royal Cypher).
• George VI 1st type: GRI (letters side by each).
• George VI 2nd type: GVIR.
• Elizabeth II issue: EIIR.
The reverse of the insignia is plain. It is believed that the MC was designed by King George V.
Military Cross Elizabeth II obverse.
Military Cross reverse.
Suspender: A plain flat slotted suspender 37 mm wide bearing a small eyelet in the centre through which passes a ring that attaches to an eyelet mounted on the top of the insignia.
Ribbon: A watered white ribbon 32 mm wide with a central stripe of purple.
Bars: A silver bar 33 mm wide displaying in the centre a Tudor Crown. The bar slides over the ribbon.
Naming: None, though privately engraved examples do exist. Insignia and bars presented after 1938 are dated with the year of award on the lower part of the reverse.
Postnominals: MC.
Other: All insignia awarded to Canadians were struck by the Royal Mint.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 3,596 (307 1st bars, 17 2nd bars).
• First World War: 2,885 (294 1st bars, 16 2nd bars).
• Second World War: 678 (13 1st bars, 1 2nd bar).
• Korean War: 33.
The Distinguished Flying Cross
Distinguished Flying Cross George VI 1st type obverse.
Origins: The Distinguished Flying Cross was established as part of a family of decorations to provide recognition for the newly created Royal Air Force, which came into being on April 1, 1918. Throughout the First World War members of the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service, the precursors to the RAF, were entitled to the various army and navy decorations respectively. With the air force created as a separate service, it was necessary to initiate a comparable set of decorations to recognize gallantry in an air setting. The DFC, DFM, AFC, and AFM were all created by King George V in June 1918. The Canadian Air Force, established in 1920 and renamed the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1924, was eligible for this group of awards until 1968. The modern Canadian equivalent is the Medal of Military Valour.
Criteria: Awarded to commissioned officers and warrant officers who perform acts of valour, courage, or devotion to duty while flying in active operations against the enemy.
Insignia: A silver cross flory terminated in the horizontal and base bars with bombs, the upper bar terminating with a rose, surmounted by another cross composed of airplane propellers charged in the centre with a rose superimposed with the letters RAF within a roundel, itself surrounded by a winged wreath of laurels ensigned by an Imperial Crown. The reverse displays an uncrowned Royal Cypher of the reigning Sovereign and the date 1918. The DFC was designed by E. Carter Preston. There have been four types of this decoration awarded to Canadians, the differences relating to the Royal Cypher displayed on the reverse:
• George V issue: GRI with the arm of the R looping through the eye of the “8” in 1918.
• George VI 1st type: GRI without the arm of the R intersecting with the “8” in 1918.
• George VI 2nd type: GVIR.
• Elizabeth II issue: EIIR.
Distinguished Flying Cross George VI 1st type reverse.
Suspender: A highly decorative suspender composed of two sprigs of laurel that graduate into a straight suspender. The suspender is attached to the top of the cross via a small oblong ring that passes through an eyelet mounted on top of the insignia.
Ribbon: A white ribbon 32 mm wide displaying purple stripes on a 45 degree angle, 3.175 mm apart. Until 1919 the stripes were horizontal.
Bars: A 33 mm wide silver bar with a flying eagle centred; the bar slips over the ribbon.
Naming: None, though privately engraved examples do exist. Insignia and bars presented after 1940 are dated with the year of the award on the lower part of the reverse.
Postnominals: DFC.
Other: Crosses awarded during the First World War were made by John Pinches, while those awarded to Canadians during the Second World War and the Korean War were made by the Royal Mint.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 4,019 (213 1st bars, 6 2nd bars).
• Second World War: 4,018 (213 1st bars, 6 2nd bars).
• Korean War: 1.
The Air Force Cross
Air Force Cross George VI 1st type obverse.
Origins: The Air Force Cross is part of the family of air force decorations created in June 1918 after the establishment of the Royal Air Force. The modern Canadian equivalent is the Meritorious Service Cross or Medal (military division).
Criteria: Awarded to commissioned officers and warrant officers who perform acts of valour, courage, or devotion to duty while flying, though not in active operations against the enemy.
Insignia: A silver cross in the form of a thunderbolt, the arms conjoined by wings, the base bar terminating with a bomb, surmounted by another cross composed of airplane propellers, the four ends inscribed with the letters GVRI (the elements of the Sovereign’s Royal Cypher). In the centre of the roundel appears a representation of Hermes mounted on a hawk in flight bestowing a wreath. The reverse is plain, displaying in the centre an uncrowned Royal Cypher for the reigning Sovereign above the date 1918. There have been four types of this decoration awarded to Canadians:
• George V issue: 1 letter of each part of the Royal Cypher GVRI on the arms of the cross. The reverse displaying in the centre GRI with the arm of the R looping through the eye of the “8” in 1918.
• George VI 1st type: 1 letter of each part of the Royal Cypher GVIRI on the arms of the cross. The reverse displays in the centre GRI without the arm of the R intersecting with the “8” in 1918.
• George VI 2nd type: 1 letter of each part of the Royal Cypher GVIR on the 3 uppermost arms of the cross. The reverse displays in the centre GVIR.
• Elizabeth II issue: 1 letter of each part of the Royal Cypher EIIR on the uppermost arms of the cross. The reverse displays in the centre EIIR.
Air Force Cross George VI 1st type reverse.
Suspender: A highly decorative suspender composed to two sprigs of laurel that graduate into a straight suspender. The suspender is attached to the top of the cross via a small oblong ring that is integral to the main insignia (not a loose ring as for the DFC).
Ribbon: A white ribbon 32 mm wide displaying red stripes on a 45 degree angle, 3.175 mm apart. Until 1919 the stripes were horizontal.
Bars: A 33 mm wide silver bar with a flying eagle centred; the bar slips over the ribbon.
Naming: None, though privately engraved examples do exist. All insignia and bars awarded after 1939 are dated with the year of the award on the lower part of the reverse. Awards from 1939 are engraved with the year, while subsequent issues are engraved.
Postnominals: AFC.
Other: Crosses awarded during the First World War were made by John Pinches, while those awarded to Canadians during the Second World War and Korean War were made by the Royal Mint.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 454 (1 1st bar).
• Second World War: 428 (1 1st bar).
• Korean War: 4.
• Postwar: 22.
The George Medal
George Medal reverse.
Origins: The George Medal was created by King George VI in September 1940 along with the GC to serve as a pair of decorations to recognize civilian and military gallantry in non-combat situations. A number of awards were made to Canadians for their services in defusing bombs placed by the Front de libération du Québec (FLQ). The modern Canadian equivalent is the Star of Courage.
Criteria: Intended as an award primarily for civilians and as an award for the military for “acts of great bravery” for which purely military honours are not normally granted.
Insignia: A circular silver medal 36 mm in diameter, the obverse bearing the Sovereign’s effigy and titles, while the reverse displays a representation of St. George slaying the dragon on the coast of England circumscribed by the text THE GEORGE MEDAL. The medal was designed by K.C. Gray. Four obverse types of the George Medal have been awarded to Canadians:
Queen Elizabeth II investing Flight Lieutenant Robert Sabourin with the George Medal, Rideau Hall, 1959.
• George VI 1st type (1940–49): George VI crowned, circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OMN:REX ET INDIAE IMP:.
• George VI 2nd type (1949–52): George VI crowned, circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI DEI GRA BRITT.OMN REX FID.DEF:+.
• Elizabeth II 1st type (1952–59): Elizabeth II crowned, circumscribed by the legend ELIZABETH II D:G: BR: OMN: REGINA F:D:.
• Elizabeth II 2nd type (1959 to present): Elizabeth II crowned, circumscribed by the legend ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA F.D..
George Medal George VI 1st type obverse.
Suspender: A footed suspender through which a 15 mm ring passes and the ribbon.
Ribbon: A red ribbon 32 mm in width bearing 5 equally spaced 2 mm wide stripes of garter blue.
Bars: A silver bar 33 mm wide displaying laurel leaves in the centre slides over the ribbon.
Naming: Engraved or impressed capitals around the rim. Various details have been found engraved around the edge; civilian issues are found with both the full given name and surname or initials and surname, while those to members of the armed forces are found with the number, abbreviated rank, initials, surname, and abbreviated service/corps.
Postnominals: GM.
Other: One award of the GM to a Canadian was cancelled at the request of the recipient.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 76(4 1st bars, 1 cancelled award).
• Second World War: 42 (4 1st bars).
• Korean War: 1.
• Postwar: 31 (1 of these awards was cancelled).
The Distinguished Service Medal
Distinguished Service Medal George VI 1st type obverse.
Origins: The Distinguished Service Medal was created by King George V in October 1914 to be an award junior to the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal for members of the naval services other than commissioned officers. A bar to the DSM was created in 1916, and in 1942 the award was opened to those serving in the Merchant Navy. The modern Canadian equivalent is the Medal of Military Valour.
Criteria: Chief petty officers, petty officers, and men of the naval services who distinguish themselves by acts of pre-eminent bravery in action with the enemy.
Insignia: A circular silver medal 36 mm in diameter, the obverse bearing the effigy of the reigning Sovereign circumscribed by his or her titles. Three issues of this medal have been awarded to Canadians:
• George VI 1st type: Crowned effigy of George VI circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI D: G:BR:OMN:REX ET INDIAE IMP:.
• George VI 2nd type: Crowned effigy of George VI circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI DEI GRA: BRITT: OMN: REX FID: DEF:+.
• Elizabeth II: Crowned effigy of Elizabeth II circumscribed by the legend ELIZABETH II D:G:BR:OMN:REGINA F:D:.
Distinguished Service Medal reverse.
The reverse of this medal has remained unchanged since its inception: a Victorian Crown and the text FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE on three lines within a laurel wreath.
Suspender: A swivelling claw-footed suspender with a straight bar.
Ribbon: A navy blue ribbon 32 mm wide with a 12 mm stripe of white down the centre divvied in half by a 2 mm wide stripe of navy blue.
Bars: A silver bar 33 mm wide with raised edge displaying laurel leaves in the centre slides on the ribbon.
Naming: Engraved or impressed capitals, number, abbreviated rank, initials, surname, and service.
Postnominals: DSM.
Other: A 2nd type of Queen Elizabeth II obverse also exists, though none were awarded to Canadians. In 1993 the British replaced this decoration with the Distinguished Service Cross.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 116 (2 1st bars).
• Second World War: 114 (2 1st bars).
• Korean War: 2.
The Military Medal
Military Medal George V obverse.
Military Medal George V reverse.
Origins: The Military Medal was created in March 1916 to recognize warrant officers, non-commissioned officers, and men serving in the army. Royal Flying Corps personnel and members of the naval services were also eligible for this medal under certain circumstances. The modern Canadian equivalent is the Medal of Military Valour.
Criteria: Acts of bravery in the field.
Insignia: A circular silver medal 36 mm in diameter, there have been six obverse types awarded to Canadians:
• George V 1st type: George V uncrowned in a field marshal’s uniform circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS V BRITT: OMN: REX ET IND:IMP:.
• George V 2nd type: George V crowned in coronation robes circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS V BRITT: OMN: REX ET IND:IMP:.
• George VI 1st type: George VI crowned, circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI D:G: BR: OMN: REX ET INDIAE IMP:.
• George VI 2nd type: George VI crowned, circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI DEI GRA: BRITT. OMN: REX FID: DEF:+.
• Elizabeth II: Elizabeth II crowned, circumscribed by the legend ELIZABETH II D:G: BR: OMN: REGINA F:D:.
The reverse displays the Royal Cypher of the reigning Sovereign below which is found the text FOR BRAVERY IN THE FIELD on four lines, the text and cypher within a wreath of laurel leaves. Four reverse type medals were awarded to Canadians:
Military Medal George VI 1st type obverse.
Military Medal George VI 1st type reverse.
• George V both types: GVR.
• George VI 1st type: GRI.
• George VI 2nd type: GVIR.
• Elizabeth II: EIIR.
Suspender: Swivelling claw-footed suspender with an ornate scroll bar.
Ribbon: A dark blue ribbon 32 mm in width displaying in the centre alternating 3 mm stripes of white (3) and red (2).
Bars: A silver bar with raised edge displaying laurel leaves in the centre slides over the ribbon.
Naming: Engraved or impressed capitals, number, abbreviated rank, initials, surname, and unit.
Postnominals: MM.
Other: In 1993 the British replaced this decoration with the Military Cross.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 13,654 (848 1st bars, 3 2nd bars).
• First World War: 12,345 (838 1st bars, 37 2nd bars).
• Second World War: 1,256 (10 1st bars, 1 2nd bar).
• Korean War: 53.
The Distinguished Flying Medal
Distinguished Flying Medal reverse.
Distinguished Flying Medal George VI 1st type obverse.
Origins: The Distinguished Flying Medal is part of the family of air force decorations created in June 1918 after the establishment of the Royal Air Force.
Criteria: Awarded to non-commissioned officers and men who perform acts of valour, courage, or devotion to duty while flying in active operations against the enemy. The modern Canadian equivalent is the Medal of Military Valour.
Insignia: A silver oval-shaped medal 35 mm wide and 41 mm tall displaying in the centre the Sovereign’s effigy circumscribed by his or her titles. The reverse displays a representation of Athena Nike seated on an airplane with the date 1918 in the field and the text FOR COURAGE, the entire allegory encircled within a narrow laurel wreath at the outermost edge of the disc. Two types of this medal were issued to Canadians:
• George V issue: an uncrowned effigy of George V circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS V BRITT: OMN: REX ET IND:IMP:.
• George VI issue: an uncrowned effigy of George VI circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI D:G: BR: OMN: REX F.D: IND:IMP:.
Suspender: A pair of extended wings joined in the centre by a bomb in the style of the First World War.
Ribbon: A white ribbon 32 mm wide displaying purple stripes on a 45 degree angle, 2 mm apart. Until 1919 the stripes were horizontal.
Bars: A 33 mm wide silver bar with a flying eagle centred; the bar slips over the ribbon.
Postnominals: DFM.
Naming: Impressed around the rim, number, rank, surname, and given initials, or hand-engraved around the rim number, rank, given initials, surname, and RCAF.
Other: One other George V type (crowned), one other George VI type (without IND IMP), and another Elizabeth II type of this decoration also exist; however, none of these were bestowed upon Canadians. In 1993 the British replaced this decoration with the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 516 (all awards for the Second World War).
The Air Force Medal
Air Force Medal George VI 1st type obverse.
Air Force Medal reverse.
Origins: The Air Force Medal was part of the family of air force decorations created in June 1918 after the establishment of the Royal Air Force.
Criteria: Awarded to non-commissioned officers and men who perform acts of valour, courage, or devotion to duty while flying, though not in active operations against the enemy. The modern Canadian equivalent is the Meritorious Service Cross or Medal (military division).
Insignia: A silver oval-shaped medal 35 mm wide and 41 mm tall, displaying in the centre the Sovereign’s effigy circumscribed by his or her titles. The reverse displays a representation of Hermes mounted on a hawk in flight bestowing a wreath, along with the date 1918 in the field, the entire allegory encircled within a narrow laurel wreath at the outermost edge of the disc. Two types of this medal were issued to Canadians:
• George VI issue: uncrowned effigy of George VI circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI D:G: BR: OMN: REX F.D: IND:IMP:.
• Elizabeth II issue: uncrowned effigy of Elizabeth II circumscribed by the legend ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA FID: DEF:.
Suspender: A pair of extended wings joined in the centre by a bomb in the style of the First World War.
Ribbon: A white ribbon 32 mm wide displaying red stripes on a 45 degree angle, 2 mm apart. Until 1919 the stripes were horizontal.
Bars: A 33 mm wide silver bar with a flying eagle centred; the bar slips over the ribbon.
Naming: Impressed around the rim, number, rank, surname, and given initials, or hand-engraved around the rim number, rank, given initials, surname, and RCAF.
Postnominals: AFM.
Other: Two King George V types, one other King George VI type (without IND IMP), and another Elizabeth II type of this decoration also exist; however, none of these were bestowed upon Canadians. In 1993 the British replaced this decoration with the Air Force Cross.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 46.
• Second World War: 42.
• Postwar: 2.
• Korean War: 2.
The Edward Medal in Silver and the Edward Medal
Edward Medal in silver Edward VII obverse.
Origins: The Edward Medal was established by King Edward VII in 1908 to recognize “the many heroic acts performed by Miners and Quarrymen and others who endanger their own lives in saving or endeavouring to save the lives of others from the perils in Mines and Quarries.”[5] The medal was unusual in that it came in two classes, 1st and 2nd, and by 1909 the criteria had been expanded to include heroism displayed in the course of industrial employment. In effect, the medal had two divisions — one for mines and one for industry with two classes of recognition for each. By 1917 the designations of 1st and 2nd class were dropped, the 1st class becoming the Edward Medal in Silver and the 2nd class simply as the Edward Medal.
The last award of the Edward Medal in Silver to a Canadian was made in 1916, and it was discontinued in 1917. The Edward Medal was only awarded posthumously from 1949 until it was discontinued in 1971. The modern Canadian equivalent of the Edward Medal in Silver is the Star of Courage, while the Medal of Bravery is the modern equivalent of the Edward Medal.
Criteria: The criteria varied depending on the setting. For Mines and Quarries the medal was bestowed to recognize those saving or endeavouring to save lives in mines and quarries. For Industrial Employment the medal was bestowed to recognize those saving or endeavouring to save lives in an industrial setting. Unlike the Albert Medals, there was no requirement that the probability of death exceed the likelihood of survival.
Edward Medal in silver mines reverse.
Insignia: For the Edward Medal in Silver, two types of obverses were issued to Canadians who earned this medal; both were a circular silver medal 36 mm in diameter:
• Uncrowned effigy of Edward VII circumscribed by the legend EDWARDVS VII D: G: BRITT: OMN: REX F:D: IND:IMP:.
• Uncrowned effigy of George V circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS V D.G.BRITT: OMN: REX F.D. IND:IMP:.
For the Edward Medal, only one type of obverse was issued to Canadians: a circular bronze medal 36 mm in diameter bearing the uncrowned effigy of King George V and circumscribed by the legend GEORGVS V D.G.BRITT: OMN: REX F.D. IND:IMP.
There were three reverse types awarded to Canadians, which was dependent on whether the medal was awarded for Mines and Quarries or for Industrial Employment:
• Mines and Quarries depicts a miner rescuing a comrade in a collapsed mine shaft with the text FOR COURAGE near the upper left.
• 1st type Industrial Employment depicts the upper torso of a bare-chested man with his left arm reaching up for help, and in his right arm a limp companion. On the left side an industrial town is depicted, and the upper right carries the text FOR COURAGE.
• 2nd type Industrial Employment displays a female figure holding a wreath in each of her outstretched hands, with an industrial town in the background and the text FOR COURAGE.
Edward Medal in bronze George V reverse.
Edward Medal in bronze, industry reverse.
Suspender: Claw-footed suspender with an oval ring 9 mm by 14 mm.
Ribbon: A dark blue ribbon 35 mm wide edged on each side by 5 mm of yellow. The same ribbon was used for both honours.
Bars: A bar could be awarded with this medal, though none were awarded to Canadians.
Naming: Hand-engraved capitals, given name, and surname in full.
Postnominals: EM.
Other: In 1971 the living recipients of the Edward Medal were invited to exchange their medals for the George Cross. There were no Canadian exchange awards. Only the versions of those medals earned by Canadians are listed herein.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 5.
• 1 Edward Medal in Silver (Mines and Quarries).
• 1 Edward Medal in Silver (Industry Employment).
• 3 Edward Medals (Industry Employment).
The King’s Police Medal
King’s Police Medal George V 1st type obverse.
Origins: As the police services throughout the British Empire became increasingly professionalized and important in the maintenance of peace and order, it became necessary to institute an award to recognize the brave acts and/or distinguished services rendered by keepers of the King’s peace. While those serving in the various constabularies were eligible for such decorations as the Albert Medal for gallantry, there were no official honours to recognize distinguished service. The Royal Irish Constabulary had established the Constabulary Medal in 1842, but it was limited to service in Ireland. In Canada some members of the Royal Northwest Mounted Police (RNWMP) and the Dominion Police were awarded the Imperial Service Medal, while a very few senior officers were appointed to the Imperial Service Order. However, the breadth of recognition available to the police was very limited.
In 1909 King Edward VII established the King’s Police Medal, which could be awarded for gallantry or for distinguished services. The name of the decoration was changed to the King’s Police and Fire Services Medal in 1940, though members of the fire services had been eligible for the medal from its inception.
Beginning in 1950, the medal for gallantry was only awarded posthumously, the George Medal being better suited for this sort of recognition. In 1954 this medal was restructured into two separate awards — the Queen’s Police Medal and the Queen’s Fire Services Medal — none of which were ever awarded on the advice of the Canadian government, though the offer was extended by the British government. The modern Canadian equivalent for KPMs awarded for gallantry is the Medal of Bravery, and for distinguished service the equivalent is an appointment to the Order of Merit of the Police Forces or an awarding of a Meritorious Service Decoration.
Criteria: To recognize those in the police and fire services for heroic acts of courage and instances of conspicuous devotion to duty. Specifically:
King’s Police Medal distinguished service reverse.
a) Conspicuous gallantry in saving life and property, or in preventing crime or arresting criminals; the risks incurred to be estimated with due regard to the obligations and duties of the officer concerned.
b) An especially distinguished record in administrative or detective service.
c) Success in organizing police forces or fire departments, or in maintaining their organ-ization under special difficulties.
d) Special services in dealing with serious or widespread outbreaks of crime or public disorder, or fire.
e) Valuable political and secret services.
f) Special services to Royalty and Heads of State.
g) Prolonged service, but only when distinguished by very exceptional ability and merit.[6]
Insignia: A circular silver medal 36 mm in diameter, the obverse bearing an effigy of the reigning sovereign. There have been three obverse types awarded to Canadians:
• George V 1st type: An uncrowned George V circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS V BRITT: OMN: REX ET IND: IMP:.
• George VI 1st type: A crowned effigy of George VI circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI D: G:BR: OMN: REX ET INDIAE IMP:.
• George VI 2nd type: A crowned effigy of George VI circumscribed by the legend GEORGIVS VI DEI GRA: BRITT: OMN: REX FID: DEF:+.
There are two distinctive reverses for this medal, one for gallantry the other for distinguished service:
• When awarded for distinguished service: a helmeted knight standing erect, holding close to his body the sword of justice, his other hand atop a shield bearing the text TO GUARD MY PEOPLE on three lines. In the background of this allegory is a fortified city.
• When awarded for gallantry, the reverse is identical to that for distinguished service save the addition of the text FOR GALLANTRY at the bottom of the reverse. This reverse was introduced in 1933 and issued in 1934.
Suspender: A claw-footed suspender with an oval ring 9 mm by 14 mm.
Ribbon: Three ribbon types were used with this medal:
• A blue ribbon 35 mm wide edged on each side with 4 mm of white (1912–16).
• A blue ribbon 35 mm wide with a central 4 mm wide stripe of white and edged on each side by 4 mm of white (1916–33, for both distinguished service and gallantry; from 1933 onward only for distinguished service).
• A blue ribbon 35 mm wide, with a central 4 mm stripe of white and edged on each side by 4 mm of white; in the centre of each white stripe is 1 mm of red (to denote the medal was awarded for gallantry, used from 1933 onward).
Bars: A silver laurelled bar, though none awarded to Canadians.
Naming: Engraved capitals, most often found with the abbreviated rank, full given and surname of the recipient. The name of the police service is also occasionally included.
Postnominals: KPM or KPFSM (not introduced until 1969).
Other: A King Edward VII, a second King George V type, and two types of Queen Elizabeth II issues of the medal also exist, though none were awarded to Canadians.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 50 (8 George V 1st type, 37 George VI 1st type, 5 George VI 2nd type).
Mention in Dispatches
Mention in Dispatches oak leaf First World War issue.
Mention in Dispatches oak leaf, Second World War and Korea War issue.
Origins: Prior to the creation of official gallantry decorations, it was customary to mention individuals who had distinguished themselves in the field or at sea in dispatches. These dispatches or reports were sent by commanders to the Sovereign and to Parliament to inform them of progress in a particular campaign. To be mentioned in and of itself was an honour, though it was not originally accompanied by an insignia or certificate. The tradition originated in the Royal Navy as a mechanism for allowing flag officers to learn of the service and actions of naval officers serving at sea. Exemplary action would be noted and placed in an officer’s record and was, in the long term, often crucial in securing promotions. As the British Empire expanded, it was no longer just the navy that saw action far away from the British Isles but also the army. Thus the practice spread to the land forces, though it would not be until 1844 that it was extended to non-commissioned officers.[7]
Mentions in Dispatches (MIDs) became widely used in the South African War (1899–1902), and a handful of Canadians were awarded them. Prior to the establishment of the broad range of British gallantry awards, there was no real intermediate award for bravery in the field that did not warrant either the Distinguished Conduct Medal, Distinguished Service Order, or Victoria Cross, and the MID filled this gap.
During the First World War, Canadians continued to receive MIDs. Because the British honours system quickly expanded in this period to include a variety of intermediate bravery awards, MIDs were not greatly used by the Canadian Expeditionary Force. Also because of this expansion, the MID lost some of its cachet as an award of much significance: soldiers would much rather receive a medal than a simple mention in the London Gazette. Indeed, more Canadians received the Military Medal than were awarded an MID.
Military personnel in an MID had their names listed in the London Gazette and received certificates from Britain’s secretary of state for war, along with small oak leaf branches for wear on their Victory Medals (created in 1920). This practice continued during the Second World War and again during the Korean War, after which the practice went into abeyance after the establishment of the Canadian honours system.
First World War Mention in Dispatches certificate.
Criteria: For valiant conduct, devotion to duty, or other distinguished service in warlike situations in an active theatre of operations.
Insignia: First introduced in 1920, with permission to wear insignia backdated to those recognized beginning in 1914. There have been two types of full-sized MID insignia:
• 1st type (1914–20), a multi-lobed oak leaf, bronze in colour, 36 mm in length.
• 2nd type (1920 to present), a single oak leaf, bronze in colour, 20 mm in length.
Wear: The insignia is worn on the designated ribbon (Allied Victory Medal, 1939–45 War Medal, Queen’s Korean War Medal). If there is no designated ribbon, the insignia is worn at the end of the undress ribbons sewn to the uniform.
Other: Beginning in 1919, recipients were presented with a certificate bearing the Royal Arms of the United Kingdom at the top along with their rank, name, service, and serial number (where applicable).
Second World War Mention in Dispatches certificate.
Number Awarded: 5,467 (First World War), 9,666 (Second World War), 260 (Korean War).
King’s/Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct
King’s/Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct badge.
Origins: Created primarily to serve as a civilian equivalent to a Mention in Dispatches, the first awards of this commendation were made in December 1939. During the First World War, various civilians were commended officially by the British government. However, there was no consistency to the award, nor was there an insignia of any type.
Criteria: Awarded for brave conduct worthy of recognition but not meeting the requirement for bestowal of a gallantry decoration such as the George Medal.
Insignia: For those serving in a uniformed service, a Mention in Dispatches oak leaf was awarded. Civilians received an oval-shaped, gold-coloured badge 22 mm wide and 40 mm tall (initially made of plastic!) displaying two laurel braches terminating with the Royal Crown at the top, in the centre a broad sword and a plaque bearing the text FOR BRAVE CONDUCT. After the Second World War, this badge was replaced with a silver spray of laurel leaves worn on the ribbon of the Defence Medal or on the lapel in the absence of an associated medal.
Postnominals: None.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 28 King’s and 96 Queen’s Commendations.
King’s/Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct ribbon insignia.
King’s/Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air
King’s/Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air.
Origins: The King’s/Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air was created in 1943.
Criteria: Awarded for brave conduct worthy of recognition but not meeting the requirement for bestowal of a gallantry decoration such as the Air Force Cross or Air Force Medal.
Insignia: A bronze Mention in Dispatches oak leaf was worn on the relevant war service medal ribbon or on the lapel in the absence of an associated medal. Civilians awarded this commendation received a silver-coloured badge composed of a pair of stretched wings with the text FOR VALUABLE SERVICE atop an Imperial Crown.
Postnominals: None.
Number of Awards to Canadians: 319.
