War Medal 1939-1945

War Medal 1939-1945

The War Medal 1939-1945 is a British military service medal established in 1945 to recognize the service of British and Commonwealth personnel during World War II. The war was a global conflict fought between the Allied powers, including the United Kingdom, the United States, the Soviet Union, and other countries, against the Axis powers, led by Germany, Italy, and Japan. The War Medal 1939-1945 honors the commitment and sacrifice of those who served in this monumental struggle for freedom and justice.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the War Medal 1939-1945, personnel must have served at least 28 days, either continuous or aggregated, in the armed forces or as a civilian directly involved in military operations during the period between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945. The medal could also be awarded posthumously to those who were killed or died as a direct result of their service during the war.

Design

The War Medal 1939-1945 is designed as a circular, cupro-nickel medallion featuring the head of King George VI on the obverse, surrounded by the inscription "GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OMN:REX ET INDIAE IMP." The reverse of the medal displays a triumphant lion standing on a defeated double-headed dragon, symbolizing the victory of the Allies over the Axis powers, with the dates "1939-1945" inscribed above.

Ribbon

The ribbon of the War Medal 1939-1945 features a series of alternating red, white, and blue stripes, representing the colors of the Union Jack, the national flag of the United Kingdom.

The War Medal 1939-1945 is a symbol of the service and sacrifice of British and Commonwealth personnel who served during World War II. It is a testament to their dedication and commitment in the fight against tyranny and a reminder of the challenges they faced in a global struggle to defend freedom and democracy.

Unmounted Medals

If you order your medal unmounted, the medal and ribbon will be supplied as separate components. Miniature medals will be supplied with 15cm of ribbon and full size medals will be supplied with 30cm of ribbon.

War Medal 1939-1945 Full Size Court Mounted

The court mounting of medals involves securing medals to a stiff backing board, along with the placement of a brooch fitting on the board. This ensures that the medals remain firmly in place and do not shift or move about while being worn.

It is mandatory for active members of the Australian Defence Force to have their medals court mounted, as it is considered the appropriate method of presenting military honours in a professional and respectful manner. By doing so, the medals are given proper recognition and are displayed in a neat and organized fashion.

War Medal 1939-1945 Full Size Swing Mounted

The swing mounting of medals refers to the attachment of a medal to a ribbon that is allowed to hang freely from a brooch, which in turn is affixed to a uniform or clothing. This mounting style was commonly used for medals from the Boer War up to and including World War II, although there are no fixed guidelines or regulations regarding its use.

War Medal 1939-1945 Miniature Court Mounted

Miniature Court Mounted medals are mounted using the same method as Full size medals, yet they are typically worn to ceremonies were wearing full size medals would be impractical. These medals are commonly worn to all ceremonies that take place after 6 pm such as dinners.

War Medal 1939-1945 Miniature Swing Mounted

Miniature Swing Mounted medals are mounted using the same method as Full size medals, yet they are typically worn to ceremonies were wearing full size medals would be impractical. These medals are commonly worn to all ceremonies that take place after 6 pm such as dinners.

War Medal 1939-1945 Ribbon Bar

A ribbon bar is a small, rectangular display of ribbons worn on military uniforms to represent various honours and awards earned by the wearer. These ribbons are arranged in a specific order and are attached to a backing, which is then attached to the uniform. Ribbon bars are a compact and convenient way for military personnel to display their achievements and are often used in situations where a full-sized medal or award would be impractical.