British Medals of World War Two:

The Defence Medal

 
 

The Defence Medal
 

Description:  36mm diameter, of cupro-nickel 1, obverse shows the uncrowned head of King George VI and the legend "GEORGIVS VI D: BR: OMN: REX: F: D: IND: IMP:". The reverse depicts a crowned oak tree on a symbolic island, guarded by two lions. The words THE DEFENCE MEDAL are in exergue.
     Awarded to service personnel and many civilian organisations for three years service in non operational areas subjected to air attack or closely threatened. Also awarded for one years overseas service - If the overseas service area was subject to enemy attacks or closely threatened the qualifying period was reduced to six months. Many WW2 home defence and related organisations were eligible such as the Home Guard, Auxiliary Fire Service, Civil Defence, etc.

Notes.
1. The Canadian version was in 0.800 silver
Also see official 1945 Government statement.

Defence Medal

The Ribbon

Green with a wide central orange stripe and two narrow black stripes.
 The green represents " our green land" and the orange the flames of enemy attacks.
 The black stripes commemorate the black-out.
 

 

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