During World War I, existing medals for bravery extended to reflect the changing nature of conflict, as well as new medals instituted. We’ve created an overview of the major medals for gallantry or meritorious service, including individual stories behind the acts of valour and devotion to duty that achieved them.
The highest military decoration, awarded for valour and devotion to duty in the face of the enemy to members of the armed forces ... Read more
Awarded for meritorious or distinguished service by officers of the armed forces during wartime, typically in actual combat, serving under fire... Read more
Awarded for meritorious or distinguished service before the enemy ‘by men of His Majesty’s Fleet’... Read more
Military CrossAwarded for an act or acts of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy on land to captains or officers of lower rank up to warrant officers... Read more
Distinguished Flying CrossAwarded for an act or acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty whilst flying in active operations against the enemy, to personnel of the Royal Air Force and other services... Read more
Air Force CrossAwarded for acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty when flying by officers and warrant officers, but not in active operations against the enemy... Read more
Distinguished Conduct MedalAwarded for gallantry in the field, an distinguished award for bravery for NCOs and soldiers of the British Army, second only to the Victoria Cross for ‘other ranks’... Read more
Distinguished Service MedalAwarded to members of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, and formerly also to personnel of other Commonwealth countries, up to and including the rank of Chief Petty Officer. For bravery and resourcefulness on active service... Read more
Military MedalAwarded to personnel of the British Army, and formerly also to personnel of other Commonwealth countries, below commissioned rank, for bravery in battle on land... Read more
Distinguished Flying MedalAwarded to non-commissioned officers for exceptional valour, courage or devotion to duty while flying in active operations against the enemy... Read more
Air Force MedalAwarded for acts of courage or devotion to duty when flying, though not in active operations against the enemy... Read more
Mentioned in DespatchesThough not a medal, for actions during WW1, soldiers were entitled to receive a certificate and wear a decoration of a spray of oak leaves in bronze... Read more
