British War Medal

The British War Medal is a military campaign medal that was awarded to British and Imperial forces who served in World War I. The medal was established on July 26, 1919, and was awarded to individuals who served in the armed forces or as nurses, doctors, and other medical staff in the war between August 5, 1914, and November 11, 1918.

Eligibility

Eligibility for the British War Medal was based on a specific set of criteria, including serving in a theatre of war or on active service overseas. Personnel who were killed in action or died as a result of their war service were also eligible, as were those who were discharged due to illness or wounds.

Design

The British War Medal is made of cupro-nickel features a central design of the reigning monarch at the time, King George V, surrounded by the words "GEORGIVS V BRITT: OMN: REX ET IND: IMP:". The reverse side features a St George aboard a horse, trampling a shield and skull and cross-bones. Above St George is a sun, symbolising victory over the emblems of death.

Ribbon

The ribbon of the British War Medal features a central stripe of orange, flanked by stripes of black, white, and dark blue.