5 Defence Medal Facts

Introduction to the Defence Medal

The Defence Medal is a campaign medal that was instituted by the British government to recognize the service of those who participated in the defence of the United Kingdom during the Second World War. The medal was awarded to individuals who served in the military, as well as to civilians who were involved in the war effort. In this article, we will explore five key facts about the Defence Medal, including its eligibility criteria, design, and significance.

Fact 1: Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Defence Medal, an individual had to have served in the military or as a civilian in the United Kingdom for at least three years during the Second World War. This period of service could have been in a variety of roles, including as a member of the armed forces, a civilian defence worker, or a member of the emergency services. The medal was also awarded to individuals who served in the Home Guard, a defence organization that was established to protect the United Kingdom from invasion.

Fact 2: Design of the Medal

The Defence Medal is a silver medal that features the monarch’s head on the obverse (front) side. The reverse (back) side of the medal features a lion standing on a dragon, which represents the United Kingdom’s victory over the forces of evil. The medal is 36 mm in diameter and is suspended from a ribbon that features a green stripe in the centre, flanked by narrow black and wide red stripes.

Fact 3: Significance of the Medal

The Defence Medal is significant because it recognizes the important contribution that individuals made to the defence of the United Kingdom during the Second World War. The medal is a tangible symbol of the gratitude of the British government and people for the service and sacrifice of those who helped to protect the country from invasion and destruction. The medal is also an important part of British military history, as it commemorates the efforts of those who served during a pivotal moment in the country’s history.

Fact 4: Award of the Medal

The Defence Medal was awarded to over 1 million individuals who served in the military or as civilians during the Second World War. The medal was awarded to individuals from all branches of the armed forces, as well as to civilians who worked in a variety of roles, including as air raid wardens, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. The medal was also awarded to individuals who served in the Home Guard and other defence organizations.

Fact 5: Collectibility of the Medal

The Defence Medal is a popular collector’s item among those who are interested in military history and numismatics. The medal is relatively common, but it can still be valuable to collectors, particularly if it is in good condition and features a rare ribbon or other distinctive characteristics. Some collectors also seek out sets of medals that were awarded to individuals who served during the Second World War, including the Defence Medal, the 1939-1945 Star, and the War Medal 1939-1945.

📝 Note: The Defence Medal is an important part of British military history, and it continues to be recognized and respected today as a symbol of the service and sacrifice of those who helped to defend the United Kingdom during the Second World War.

In summary, the Defence Medal is a significant award that recognizes the important contribution that individuals made to the defence of the United Kingdom during the Second World War. The medal is a tangible symbol of the gratitude of the British government and people for the service and sacrifice of those who helped to protect the country from invasion and destruction. Whether you are a collector of military medals or simply interested in learning more about this important period in history, the Defence Medal is an fascinating topic that is worth exploring in more depth.