WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

Websites referenced for this thread, and which may be of further interest:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_campaign_medals
NZDF Medals - British Commonwealth War and Campaign Medals Awarded to New Zealanders
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/28389/Medals_Booklet.pdf
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility


Related WW2Talk threads
Ww2 medals

Medals qualification

Medal Query

In conjunction with General Service Medal
Correct medal order

 

Guide, WW2 Campaign Stars: Order, Clasps, Ribbons, Rosettes, etc.

There are some exceptions but in general the following applies...


Campaign medals are distinct from those awarded for Gallantry or for Service or Conduct, and from those medals bestowed or purchased as commemorative badges.

Unlike those for WW1 Campaign medals and stars were not engraved officially by the UK, with name, rank or number. The general exception to this rule is for those issued to South African or to Australian service personnel. These countries did issue medals with details impressed either on the reverse or on the rim. The lack of engraving makes medals difficult to attribute to any person once they become separated from their individual background or accompanying original documentation.

In the case of WW2 campaign medals there are some instances when they were automatically sent to those who qualified eg RAF Officers and there are cases when they were not - all Army. Generally speaking personnel had to apply for their own medals and after checking service records against the criteria the War Office would send out whatever was earned. The main exception to this across the board, was when a person died or was killed in service; in these cases medals were automatically sent to Next of Kin.

Aside from the significance and value placed on them by the recipients, their relatives and indeed collectors, the medals themselves can provide clues as to the service of the person to whom they were awarded. By checking criteria, one might be able to deduce some facts before having sight for instance of copy Service Records. If a man was awarded eg the Italy Star this would mean that he spent at least one day “in operational service in Italy and adjacent countries between 11 June 1943 and 8 May 1945”.

Generally speaking Stars have the simplest criteria and the most complex criteria is that of the Defence Medal.

Some medals were awarded automatically without reference to standard qualification, eg if a man had been awarded a Mention in Despatches. (A MiD is denoted by an oak leaf on relevant ribbon, or ribbon bar, and is treated like a gallantry award. As such it should not be confused with bars/clasps)

Some stars were not issued to personnel if they had already qualified previously for another star (See Burma and Pacific). If this was the case, a man would be issued with a clasp to attach above the medal on the ribbon, or if wearing a ribbon bar a rosette to attach to the relevant ribbon.

Recently a new medal was struck, the Arctic Star, and a new clasp was issued, one for those serving with Bomber Command. Previous regulations regarding a maximum possible issue of 5 Campaign Stars per person has therefore been potentially overruled only in the case of an additional Arctic Star. This older regulation should be born in mind however when looking at the reasons why men were awarded clasps, and not Stars, for various theatres in which they served.


The minimum issue for service during the war would be the War Medal 1939-1945.


Some clasps, like the Battle of Britain example, are appropriate only to one star, others like Atlantic could be worn with different stars.

There were no clasps for the Defence and War medals, but other emblems may have been worn on the War Medal.

Ex and serving Personnel can wear full-sized medals, miniature medals or ribbon bars, depending on the occasion and/or personal preference, on their left breast.

The RBL suggests that those who wish to wear their relatives medals eg during Remembrance ceremonies, should wear them on their right breast. Wearing of Decorations

Please note that on some medal ribbons there are lines of dark blue, red and light blue, eg 1939-1945 & Africa Stars. These represent the branches of Navy, Army and Air Force in that order of seniority, and as such should be worn with dark blue closest to the centre of the chest and light blue closest to the left shoulder.

The chart below lays out not only the official order in which they should be mounted and worn by recipients (as seen on the left breast, from centre chest to left side), but is also an attempt to simplify, visually, the possible variations. Fuller explanations of the criteria, etc for each medal follows.



Please note the last three lines on the chart are intended to be a guide for those trying to identify medal ribbons from old photographs. However the B&W and Sepia tones will not always be the same owing to a number of factors.

Please treat it as a rough guide only. Of course remember the Arctic Star was not issued until 2013 so has been removed from this part of the chart, to avoid any confusion as it won't appear in old images.

 

The WW2 Campaign Medals are, in order of wear:

1939-1945 Star WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

Atlantic Star WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

Air Crew Europe Star WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

Arctic Star WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

Africa Star WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

Pacific Star WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

Burma Star WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

Italy Star WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

France and Germany Star WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

Defence Medal WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

War Medal 1939-1945 WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread


No service personnel would have been entitled to all of the above, so treat this as an Order of Wear guide to the ones which were awarded.

 

1939-45 Star
(Clasps: Battle of Britain, Bomber Command)

NZDF Medals - The 1939 - 1945 Star
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1939-1945_Star
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility#to-1945-star
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/+010 1939-1945 Star/



STAR/MEDAL INFO
The first in order of wear of a series of the eight campaign stars instituted by 1945, the 1939-45 Star may be awarded for those who undertook operational service during the Second World War between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945.

It was originally designated the "1939-43 Star" but was extended to 1945 in the same year.


DESCRIPTION
The (yellow copper zinc alloy) bronze six-pointed star has on the Obverse a circular centre with the Royal Cypher (GRI/VI monogram), surmounted by the Royal crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The 1939-45 Star'.

The star has a height of 44mm and maximum width of 38mm and the Reverse is blank.


ENGRAVING
The reverse is in most examples plain, as an official no engraving policy was applied by British Commonwealth countries, except for Australia and South Africa. These two countries impressed the Reverse with the name of the recipient.


RIBBON
The ribbon for this medal, along with those of the other Second World War campaign stars, is reputed to have been designed by King George VI.

It has three equal width vertical stripes of dark blue, red and light blue. The dark blue stripe represents the Navy and the Merchant Navy, the red stripe the Army and the light blue stripe the Air Force, these being the order of seniority for the Branches.

The ribbon should be worn by the recipient on the left breast, with the dark blue stripe closest to centre of chest and furthest from the left shoulder.



CLASPS
Clasps are of yellow copper zinc alloy and are sewn directly to the face of the medal ribbon above the Star.

There are two possible clasps for this Star: BATTLE OF BRITAIN and BOMBER COMMAND.

Members of fighter aircraft crews who took part in the Battle of Britain from 10 July to 31 October 1940 were awarded the BATTLE OF BRITAIN clasp.

The BOMBER COMMAND clasp was introduced at the end of 2012/start of 2013 and is awarded to eligible Bomber Command aircrew, ie members of bomber crews who participated in at least one operational sortie in an RAF Bomber Command operational unit. Application info: http://www.veterans-uk.info/arctic_star_index.htm

These two Clasps are not issued in conjunction with any other Star.


RIBBON BARS, ROSETTES
Most ribbons on bars will have no embellishments but those who were awarded clasps are entitled to wear rosettes.

There are two possible clasps and two corresponding variations of rosettes.


BATTLE OF BRITAIN - When the 1939-1945 Star ribbon is worn alone, ie on a ribbon bar & without medal, a silver-gilt rosette is worn on the medal ribbon to denote the award of this BATTLE OF BRITAIN clasp.

BOMBER COMMAND - When the 1939-1945 Star ribbon is worn alone, ie on a ribbon bar & without medal, a silver rose emblem or rosette, denotes the award of the BOMBER COMMAND clasp.




ELIGIBILITY RULES
A full explanation of the rules regarding eligibility can be found by clicking the link below.
NZDF - The 1939 - 1945 Star regulations


CRITERIA OVERVIEW



The 1939-45 Star was immediately awarded if the service period was terminated by death, disability or wounding.

The award of a gallantry medal or a Mention in Despatches also led to an immediate award of this Star.






The 1939-45 Star is awarded for operational service overseas between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 (2 September 1945 in the Far East) for:

• A period of six months (180 days) operational service for Navy and Army personnel and Air Force non-air crew personnel.

Although the criteria is 180 days’ service between these dates, some special criteria apply when, at certain specified times, just 1 days’ service is required. There were a number of such Qualifying Special Areas or actions for which a more specific campaign medal was not issued.
Examples are:
France or Belgium 10 May to 19 June 1940
St. Nazaire 22-28 March 1942
Dieppe 19 August 1942
Iraq 10 April to 25 May 1941
Burma (Enemy Invasion 22 February 1942 to 15 May 1942)

• Naval personnel if they completed 180 days/6 months afloat with at least one voyage made in areas of operations as laid out in the regulations between certain specified dates.
• Royal Observer Corps personnel for service of 1,080 days.
• Air crew personnel with 60 days/two months service in an operational unit including at least one operational sortie.
• Air crew of fighter aircraft engaged in the Battle of Britain between 10 July and 31 October 1940 who were awarded the clasp ‘Battle of Britain’ are automatically entitled to wear the clasp on the ribbon of the 1939 to 1945 Star.

 

Atlantic Star
(Clasps: Air Crew Europe, France and Germany)

NZDF Medals - The Atlantic Star
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlantic_Star
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility#atlantic-star



CAMPAIGN HISTORY
The Battle of the Atlantic took place between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 as German U boats attacked the convoys transporting valuable supplies from America and the colonies to Britain. Battleships and aircraft escorted the convoys, hunted the U boats and despite some notable successes by the U boats, the Allies won a comprehensive victory in the Atlantic.


STAR/MEDAL INFO
The Atlantic Star was awarded to commemorate the Battle of the Atlantic between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945. It was designed primarily for convoys and their escorts and anti-submarine forces, as well as for crews of fast merchant ships that sailed alone.


DESCRIPTION
The (yellow copper zinc alloy) bronze six-pointed star has on the Obverse a circular centre with the Royal Cypher (GRI/VI monogram), surmounted by the Royal crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The Atlantic Star'.

The star has a height of 44mm and maximum width of 38mm and the Reverse is blank.


ENGRAVING
The reverse is in most examples plain, as an official no engraving policy was applied by British Commonwealth countries, except for Australia and South Africa. These two countries impressed the Reverse with the name of the recipient.


RIBBON
The ribbon for this medal, along with those of the other Second World War campaign stars, is reputed to have been designed by King George VI.

The ribbon of shaded and watered silk is coloured blue, white and sea-green, representing the colours of the Atlantic Ocean . They symbolise service in the Atlantic Ocean, and in UK and North Russian waters.

The ribbon should be worn by the recipient on the left breast, with the blue edge closest to centre of chest and furthest from the left shoulder.


CLASPS

Clasps are of yellow copper zinc alloy and are sewn directly to the face of the medal ribbon above the Star.


There are two possible clasps for this Star: AIR CREW EUROPE and FRANCE & GERMANY.

Air Crew Europe Clasp is awarded to those who became entitled to that corresponding Star subsequent to qualifying for the Atlantic Star.

France & Germany Clasp is awarded to those who became entitled to that corresponding Star subsequent to qualifying for the Atlantic Star.

In other words, personnel entitled to the Atlantic Star and the France and Germany Star and/or the Air Crew Europe Star were awarded the first star they qualified for, and a clasp in respect of the second (and third) star.

Regulations only allow the first clasp earned to be worn with the Star.



RIBBON BARS, ROSETTES
Most ribbons on bars will have no embellishments but those who were awarded clasps are entitled to wear rosettes.

As British uniform regulations stipulated that only the first clasp earned may be worn with the Star, then it follows that only one rosette may be worn on this ribbon bar.


AIR CREW EUROPE and FRANCE & GERMANY - When the Atlantic Star ribbon is worn alone, ie on a ribbon bar & without medal, a silver rose emblem or rosette denotes the award of a clasp.




ELIGIBILITY RULES
NZDF - The Atlantic Star Regulations



CRITERIA OVERVIEW
The Atlantic Star was immediately awarded if the service period was terminated by death, disability or wounding.

The award of a gallantry medal or a Mention in Despatches also led to an immediate award.

The Atlantic Star is awarded only after qualification firstly for the 1939-1945 Star.

• for 180 days’/six months’ additional service as ships crew (Navy or Army) in Home (United Kingdom), Atlantic or North Russian waters, within the period 3 September 1939 to 8 May 1945.

Merchant seaman also qualified for the medal.


Although the criteria is 180 days’ service between these dates, some special criteria apply for Navy personnel and for Aircrew when less than 6 months is required. There were a number of Qualifying Special Areas or actions for Aircrew who had taken part in operations against the enemy at sea in an operational unit.


An example is:
RAF air crew who qualify (after the award of the 1939 to 1945 Star) for an additional 60 days service in an operational unit having taken part in actions against the enemy at sea.

 

Air Crew Europe Star 

(Clasps: Atlantic, France and Germany)

NZDF Medals - The Air Crew Europe Star
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_Crew_Europe_Star
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility#air-crew-europe-star
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/+030 Air Crew Europe Star/default.htm



CAMPAIGN HISTORY
The strategic bombing campaign against German industrial cities, military installations, and a wide variety of other targets continued throughout the War and made a decisive contribution to Allied victory.
The RAF endured significant losses of both men and aircraft but by the end of the War the campaign had severely curtailed German industrial production and virtually immobilised her military power.


STAR/MEDAL INFO
The Air Crew Europe Star was awarded to Commonwealth aircrew who participated in for flying operations from United Kingdom bases over Europe between 3 September 1939 and 5 June 1944.


DESCRIPTION
The (yellow copper zinc alloy) bronze six-pointed star has on the Obverse a circular centre with the Royal Cypher (GRI/VI monogram), surmounted by the Royal crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The Air Crew Europe Star'.

The star has a height of 44mm and maximum width of 38mm and the Reverse is blank.


ENGRAVING
The reverse is in most examples plain, as an official no engraving policy was applied by British Commonwealth countries, except for Australia and South Africa. These two countries impressed the Reverse with the name of the recipient.


RIBBON
The ribbon for this medal, along with those of the other Second World War campaign stars, is reputed to have been designed by King George VI.

The ribbon is light blue with black edges, with a narrow vertical yellow stripe on each side between the light blue and the black. The sky is represented by pale blue, night flying by the black stripes on the edges, with the yellow stripes representing enemy searchlights symbolising the continuous service of the Air Force by night and day.


CLASPS
Clasps are of yellow copper zinc alloy and are sewn directly to the face of the medal ribbon above the Star.

There are two possible clasps for this Star: ATLANTIC and FRANCE & GERMANY.

Atlantic clasp is awarded to those who became entitled to that corresponding Star subsequent to qualifying for the Air Crew Europe Star.

France & Germany Clasp is awarded to those who became entitled to that corresponding Star subsequent to qualifying for the Air Crew Europe Star.

In other words, personnel entitled to the Air Crew Europe Star and the Atlantic Star and/or the France and Germany Star were awarded the first star they qualified for, and a clasp in respect of the second (and third) star.

Regulations only allow the first clasp earned to be worn with the Star.


RIBBON BARS, ROSETTES
Most ribbons on bars will have no embellishments but those who were awarded clasps are entitled to wear rosettes.

As British uniform regulations stipulated that only the first clasp earned may be worn with the Star, then it follows that only one rosette may be worn on this ribbon bar.

ATLANTIC and FRANCE & GERMANY - When the Air Crew Europe Star ribbon is worn alone, ie on a ribbon bar & without medal, a silver rose emblem or rosette denotes the award of the first or only clasp.


ELIGIBILITY RULES
NZDF - The Aircrew Europe Star Regulations


CRITERIA OVERVIEW
The Air Crew Europe Star is awarded only after qualification firstly for the 1939-1945 Star and was earned almost exclusively by Air Force personnel.

• for 60 days’ / two months' operational flying over Europe from bases in the UK with at least one operational sortie between 3 September 1939 and 5 June 1944

From 6 June 1944, operational flying over Europe qualified aircrew for the France and Germany Star.

 

Arctic Star

(No Clasps)

NZDF Medals - Breaking News
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arctic_Star
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility#arctic-star
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/+035 Arctic Star/default.htm



MEDAL/STAR INFO
The Arctic Star is a retrospective award, coming nearly seventy years after the end of World War II, being announced in late 2012. The Arctic Star was formally approved by HM The Queen, and began production in early 2013.

The Arctic Star is granted for operational service of any length by members of the British Armed Forces British Armed Forces and the Merchant Navy north of the Arctic Circle 66 degrees, 32’N) from 3 September 1939 to the 8 May 1945 inclusive.

The Arctic Star is intended to commemorate the Arctic Convoys and is designed primarily for the ships of the convoys to North Russia and their Escorts.


DESCRIPTION
The (yellow copper zinc alloy) bronze six-pointed star has on the Obverse a circular centre with the Royal Cypher (GRI/VI monogram), surmounted by the Royal crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The Arctic Star'.

The star has a height of 40mm and maximum width of 40mm and the Reverse is blank.


The design was submitted by the Ministry of Defence to the Royal Mint Advisory Committee. Their recommendation was submitted to HM The Queen for approval.


RIBBON
The Arctic Star ribbon has seven stripes of light blue, dark blue, red, white edged with narrow black lines, red, dark blue and light blue, in that order. The colours represent the Armed Services of Navy, Army and Air Force, with red also symbolising the Merchant Navy. The central white stripe, edged in black, represents the Arctic.


CLASPS
No clasps or bars were issued for this medal.


CRITERIA OVERVIEW
Royal Navy and Merchant Navy personnel must have served anywhere at sea north of the Arctic Circle including, but not limited exclusively to, those ships participating in, and in support of convoys to North Russia. Fleet Air Arm personnel, not qualified by sea service, may qualify under the criteria applicable to Royal Air Force personnel.

Army personnel serving in His Majesty’s ships or in defensively equipped Merchant ships qualify under the rules applying to the Navy or Merchant Navy. Personnel taking part in land operations north of the Arctic Circle are also eligible for award.

Aircrew of the Royal Air Force are eligible if they landed north of the Arctic Circle or served in the air over this area. Non aircrew on operational service in the area, for example ground crew or those sailing with CAM ships (Catapult Aircraft Merchant Ships), are also eligible.

Civilian Members of the few approved categories who qualify for Campaign Stars will be eligible so long as they meet any qualifying criteria while serving in support of military operations.

Foreign nationals serving in British or Dominion Forces, such as the Royal Canadian Navy and Royal Australian Navy, are eligible for the Arctic Star so long as the individuals have not been recognized by a similar award from their own governments.

Eligibility for the Arctic Star does not effect an individual's eligibility for any other previously awarded campaign medals, nor does it automatically entitle individuals for any further awards.

[hr]

Application info:
http://www.veterans-uk.info/arctic_star_index.htm


See this linked post for an example
WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

 

Africa Star
(Clasps: 8th Army, 1st Army, North Africa 1942-43)


NZDF Medals - The Africa Star
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa_Star
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility#africa-star
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/+040 Africa Star/default.htm



CAMPAIGN HISTORY
In North Africa, British forces fought against the Germans and Italians between 10 June 1940 and 12 May 1943.

Italy entered the war in July 1940 when their forces invaded British colonies in East Africa. When the British fought back Germany sent troops to help the Italians. The British were then weakened after sending forces to aid Greece and German forces advanced, taking control of large areas of Egypt, Libya and Tunisia.

The desert conflict continued with the balance of power shifting between the 2 sides until the British eventually secured victory on 12 May 1943 when the remaining German forces surrendered at Tunis.

Some historians consider the British victory over the German forces here to have been the turning point in the war which led to victory.



STAR/MEDAL INFO
The Africa Star was awarded for a minimum of one day service in an operational area of North Africa from the date of the entry of Italy into the war on 10 June 1940 up to the date of the cessation of operations against the enemy in North Africa on 12 May 1943.

The whole of the area between the Suez Canal and the Strait of Gibraltar is included, together with Malta, Abyssinia, Kenya, the Sudan, both Somalilands and Eritrea.

The areas not bordering the Mediterranean only qualified for the Africa Star from 10 June 1940 to 27 November 1941.

Members of the Australian Imperial Force qualified for the Star for service in Syria from 8 June 1941 and 11 July 1941.




DESCRIPTION
The (yellow copper zinc alloy) bronze six-pointed star has on the Obverse a circular centre with the Royal Cypher (GRI/VI monogram), surmounted by the Royal crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The Africa Star'.



The star has a height of 44mm and maximum width of 38mm and the Reverse is blank.





ENGRAVING
The reverse is in most examples plain, as an official no engraving policy was applied by British Commonwealth countries, except for Australia and South Africa. These two countries impressed the Reverse with the name of the recipient.




RIBBON
The ribbon for this medal, along with those of the other Second World War campaign stars, is reputed to have been designed by King George VI.


The ribbon is pale buff in colour, with a central vertical red stripe, and narrower stripes, one dark blue and the other light blue. The pale buff background symbolises the sand of the desert. The central red stripe represents the Army, the dark blue stripe represents the Navy and Merchant Navy, and the light blue stripe represents the Air Force, in order of seniority of the Branches.


The ribbon should be worn by the recipient on the left breast, with the dark blue stripe closest to centre of chest and furthest from the left shoulder.


RIBBON ISSUE
The creation of the Star was announced in July 1943, and in August it was announced that the first uniform ribbons would be issued to qualifying personnel later in that year - the medals themselves were not intended to be issued until after the end of hostilities.

Some issues to overseas troops were delayed, but many had been received by the end of 1943, and were worn throughout the remainder of the war.



CLASPS
Clasps are of yellow copper zinc alloy and are sewn directly to the face of the medal ribbon.

There are three possible clasps for this Star: NORTH AFRICA 1942-43, 8TH ARMY and 1ST ARMY.


The NORTH AFRICA 1942-43 Clasp is awarded for service with the 18th Army Group Headquarters between 15 February 1942 and 12 February 1943 provided neither the 1st or 8th Army clasps have been qualified for, or Navy and Merchant Navy in shore service, or Royal Air Force service in specified areas from 23 October 1942 to 12 May 1943.


The 8TH ARMY Clasp is awarded for service with the 8th Army between 23 October 1942 and 12 May 1943, from the start of the El Alamein battle that ultimately led to the German eviction from Africa. The Eighth Army was however created in October 1941 and fought in Africa for a year before the award service requirement. General Bernard Montgomery is reputed to have refused to allow Eighth Army soldiers who fought under his predecessor, General Auchinleck, from October 1941, and even his first few months of service starting in August 1942 to wear the award. 

The 1ST ARMY Clasp is awarded for service with the 1st Army between 8 November 1942 and 12 May 1943.

Regulations allow only the first clasp earned to be worn with the Star.




RIBBON BARS, ROSETTES
Most ribbons on bars will have no embellishments but those who were awarded clasps are entitled to wear rosettes.

As British uniform regulations stipulated that only the first clasp earned may be worn with the Star, then it follows that only one rosette, representing the first clasp awarded, may be worn on this ribbon bar. General Eisenhower however was photographed wearing both the 8 & 1 devices on his medal ribbon.


NORTH AFRICA 1942-43 - When the Africa Star ribbon is worn alone, ie on a ribbon bar & without medal, a silver rose emblem or rosette denotes the award of the first or only clasp.

8TH ARMY - When the Africa Star ribbon is worn alone, ie on a ribbon bar & without medal, a silver Arabic "8" denotes the award of the 8th Army clasp.

1ST ARMY - When the Africa Star ribbon is worn alone, ie on a ribbon bar & without medal, a silver Arabic "1" denotes the award of the 1st Army clasp.



ELIGIBILITY RULES
NZDF - The Africa Star Regulations


CRITERIA OVERVIEW

The Africa Star is awarded

• for a minimum of one days operational service in North Africa west of the Suez Canal, Egypt, Malta between 10 June 1940 and 12 May 1943 and in Syria between 8 June 1941 and 11 July 1941.

Naval personnel anywhere at sea in the Mediterranean or in harbour in North Africa, Malta or Egypt between the above dates will qualify.

RAF air crew landing in or flying over an area of an Army operational command or flying over enemy occupied territory in North Africa will also qualify.

The qualifying areas for the Africa Star also include the earlier areas of conflict against the Italians in East Africa; those serving in Abyssinia, Sudan, Eritrea, Kenya or Somaliland between certain other specified dates will also qualify. Naval personnel serving in direct support of the Eritrean and Abyssinian campaigns between certain other specified dates will also qualify.

New Zealand soldiers who were captured or killed in Greece or Crete in 1941 had qualified for the Africa Star before entering Greece. This was because they entered and/or were based in Egypt (North Africa) on or after 10 June 1940, before being sent to Greece.

[hr]

Related post:
WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

 

Pacific Star
(Clasp: Burma)

NZDF Medals - The Pacific Star
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Star
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns...c-star-malaya-singapore-and-the-pacific-ocean
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/+050 Pacific Star/default.htm



CAMPAIGN HISTORY
At the same time as the campaigns in Africa and Italy, British and American forces were also fighting the Japanese in the Pacific.

This campaign began on 8 December 1941, the day after the Japanese bombed the American fleet at Pearl Harbor. It took place in the sea and air of the Pacific and on the ground with the British defending Malaya and Singapore from Japanese invasion. The Japanese quickly gained superiority in the Pacific and managed to invade Malaya, Singapore, Burma and the Philippines with relative ease.

The campaign on land ended on 15 February 1942 with defeat for the British when Singapore fell and tens of thousands of servicemen were taken prisoner of war by the Japanese. The campaign at sea continued until 2 September 1945.


STAR/MEDAL INFO
The Pacific Star was immediately awarded if the service period was terminated by death, disability or wounding.

The Pacific Star was awarded for operational service in the Pacific between 8 December 1941 and 2 September 1945, and also for certain specified service in China, Hong-Kong, Malaya and Sumatra:
Hong Kong - between 8 December 1941 and 25 December 1941
China and Malaya - between 8 December 1941 and 15 February 1942
Sumatra - between 8 December 1941 and 23 March 1942

Second World War service in China, Hong Kong, Malaya and Sumatra after the above end dates was recognised by the award of the Burma Star.

The qualifying sea areas for the award of the Pacific Star are the Pacific Ocean (including the South China Sea) and the Indian Ocean east of a line running due south from Singapore round the South-East coast of Sumatra, through Christmas Island, and southwards along the meridian of 110 deg East.

The Phoenix Islands, Samoa, Fiji, the New Hebrides, the Cocos/Keeling Islands and New Caledonia are not qualifying areas for the Pacific Star. Instead service on these islands qualified towards the award of the Defence Medal.

The Pacific Star was also awarded to certain foreign servicemen.

Personnel qualifying for both the Pacific Star and the Burma Star were awarded the first star they qualified for, and a clasp in respect of the second star.




DESCRIPTION
The (yellow copper zinc alloy) bronze six-pointed star has on the Obverse a circular centre with the Royal Cypher (GRI/VI monogram), surmounted by the Royal crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The Pacific Star'.

The star has a height of 44mm and maximum width of 38mm and the Reverse is blank.




ENGRAVING
The same no engraving policy was applied by other British Commonwealth countries, except for Australia and South Africa.

Stars issued to Australian and South African personnel have recipient names impressed.




RIBBON
The ribbon for this medal, along with those of the other Second World War campaign stars, is reputed to have been designed by King George VI.

The ribbon has a wide central stripe of green bisected by a central narrow yellow stripe to represent the forests and beaches of the Pacific. These stripes are flanked with a narrow stripe of dark blue on the left representing the Navy and light blue on the right representing the Air Force respectively ). The outer edges have bands of red which represent the Army.

The ribbon should be worn by the recipient on the left breast, with the dark blue stripe closest to centre of chest and furthest from the left shoulder.



CLASPS
Clasps are of yellow copper zinc alloy and are sewn directly to the face of the medal ribbon.

There is one clasp for this Star: BURMA.

Burma Clasp is awarded to those who became entitled to that corresponding Star subsequent to qualifying for the Pacific Star.

Regulations stipulate that personnel will never wear both the Pacific Star and the Burma Star. In other words, personnel entitled to the Pacific Star and the Burma Star were awarded whichever star they qualified for first, and a clasp in respect of the second star.




RIBBON BARS, ROSETTES
Most ribbons on bars will have no embellishments but those who were awarded clasps are entitled to wear rosettes.

BURMA - When the Pacific Star ribbon is worn alone, ie on a ribbon bar & without medal, a silver rose emblem or rosette denotes the award of this clasp.



ELIGIBILITY RULES
NZDF - The Pacific Star Regulations



CRITERIA OVERVIEW
The Pacific Star is awarded

• for a minimum of one day’s operational service in in the Pacific Theatre of Operations, Malaya or Singapore, between 8 December 1941 and 2 September 1945.

Those serving in China, Hong Kong or Sumatra between certain other specified dates will also qualify.

Navy and Merchant Navy personnel are eligible if the 1939-45 Star is earned by six months service or if they entered the Pacific Theatre between 2 March 1945 and 2 September 1945. It is then awarded for service at sea in the Pacific within certain specified boundaries. Certain special conditions apply governing award of the star for those Naval personnel entering service less than 6 months before the end of the qualifying period.

Air Force crew engaged in operations against the enemy will also qualify provided that at least one operational sortie has been completed.

The Pacific Star is awarded to Australian Civilian Personnel who served afloat with the United States Army Small Ships Section. Eligibility is the same as that for Merchant Navy personnel.

 

Burma Star
(Clasp: Pacific)

NZDF Medals - The Burma Star
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burma_Star
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility#burma-star
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/+060 Burma Star/default.htm



CAMPAIGN HISTORY
The campaign in Burma took place between 11 December 1941 and 2 September 1945, during which time the Japanese invaded Burma, driving British forces to the Indian border. As the Japanese held superiority in the Pacific it wasn’t until early in 1944 that the Allies were in a position to strike back and regain a foothold in Burma with the aim of finally defeating the Japanese in the Pacific and Far East.

Total surrender of the Japanese came on 2 September 1945 following the dropping of the atom bombs by the Allies on 2 Japanese cities.

PoWs were forced to labour on construction projects such as railway building and were frequently tortured and starved. Around 13,000 British soldiers and 2,000 civilians died in Japanese wartime camps.


STAR/MEDAL INFO
The Burma Star was granted for operational service in the Burma Campaign between 11 December 1941 and 2 September 1945.

This medal was also awarded for certain specified service:
Hong Kong - between 26 December 1941 and 2 September 1945
China and Malaya - between 16 February 1942 and 2 September 1945
Sumatra - between 24 March 1942 and 2 September 1945

Second World War service in China, Hong Kong, Malaya and Sumatra after 8 December 1941 but prior to the above start dates was recognised by the award of the Pacific Star.

Personnel qualifying for both the Burma Star and the Pacific Star were awarded the first star they qualified for, and a clasp in respect of the second star.



DESCRIPTION
The (yellow copper zinc alloy) bronze six-pointed star has on the Obverse a circular centre with the Royal Cypher (GRI/VI monogram), surmounted by the Royal crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The Burma Star'.

The star has a height of 44mm and maximum width of 38mm and the Reverse is blank.



ENGRAVING
The reverse is in most examples plain, as an official no engraving policy was applied by British Commonwealth countries, except for Australia and South Africa. These two countries impressed the Reverse with the name of the recipient.



RIBBON
The ribbon for this medal, along with those of the other Second World War campaign stars, is reputed to have been designed by King George VI.

The centre third of the ribbon has red red stripe representing the Commonwealth forces. The outer stripes are of dark blue, representing the British forces. The dark blue bands each have at their centres a stripe of bright orange symbolising the sun.




CLASPS
Clasps are of yellow copper zinc alloy and are sewn directly to the face of the medal ribbon above the Star.

There is one possible clasps for this Star: PACIFIC.

Pacific Clasp is awarded to those who became entitled to that corresponding Star subsequent to qualifying for the Burma Star

Regulations stipulate that personnel will never wear both the Pacific Star and the Burma Star. In other words, personnel entitled to the Pacific Star and the Burma Star were awarded whichever star they qualified for first, and a clasp in respect of the second star.



RIBBON BARS, ROSETTES
Most ribbons on bars will have no embellishments but those who were awarded clasps are entitled to wear rosettes.

PACIFIC - When the Burma Star ribbon is worn alone, ie on a ribbon bar & without medal, a silver rose emblem or rosette denotes the award of this clasp.



ELIGIBILITY RULES
NZDF Medals - The Burma Star


CRITERIA OVERVIEW

The Burma Star is awarded for operational service in the Burma Campaign from 11 December 1941 to 2 September 1945. In addition for:

Navy and Merchant Navy - six months qualifying service for 1939-1945 Star first, then operational service in the Bay of Bengal within certain specified boundaries and in the Malacca Strait;
Army - service on land in Bengal and Assam from 1 May 1942 to 31 December 1943, areas of Bengal and Assam east of the Brahmaputra from 1 January 1944 to 2 September 1945 and operational service in China and Malaya from 16 February 1942 to 2 September 1945; and
Air Force - one operational sortie for aircrew and qualifying service as for Army for other Air Force personnel.”

Service in the Indian provinces of Bengal and Assam in the period 1 May 1942 to 2 September 1945 also qualified.

Those serving in Bengal and Assam (in India), China, Hong Kong, Malaya or Sumatra between other specified dates will also qualify.

Entitlement to wear the Burma Star or the Burma Star clasp on the Pacific Star also enables the wearer to join the Burma Star Association.

 

Italy Star
(No clasps)

NZDF Medals - The Italy Star
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility#italy-star
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italy_Star
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/+070 Italy Star/default.htm



CAMPAIGN HISTORY
After victory in North Africa, the Allies used the position of Tunisia and Malta to invade Sicily. This campaign in Sicily took place from 10 July 1943 to 17 August 1943.

After this swift victory, the Allies pressed on into Italy, with this campaign beginning on 3 September 1943, and also invaded Italian occupied Greece, Yugoslavia, Corsica and Sardinia.

The campaign in Italy itself continued to the end of the war in Europe on 8 May 1945.




STAR/MEDAL INFO
The Italy Star was awarded for operational service (on land) in Italy, Greece, Yugoslavia, Pantelleria, the Aegean area and Dodecanese Islands, and Elba at any time between 11 June 1943 and 8 May 1945.

Other areas to qualify for the award are:
Sicily - between 11 June 1943 - 17 August 1943
Sardinia - between 11 June 1943 - 19 September 1943
Corsica - between 11 June 1943 - 4 October 1943




DESCRIPTION
The (yellow copper zinc alloy) bronze six-pointed star has on the Obverse a circular centre with the Royal Cypher (GRI/VI monogram), surmounted by the Royal crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The Italy Star'.

The star has a height of 44mm and maximum width of 38mm and the Reverse is blank.




ENGRAVING
The reverse is in most examples plain, as an official no engraving policy was applied by British Commonwealth countries, except for Australia and South Africa. These two countries impressed the Reverse with the name of the recipient.





RIBBON
The ribbon for this medal, along with those of the other Second World War campaign stars, is reputed to have been designed by King George VI.

The ribbon has five equal width stripes of red, white, green, white and red. These three colours represent the national colours on the Flag of Italy.



CLASPS
No clasps or bars were authorised/issued for this medal.





ELIGIBILITY RULES

NZDF Medals - The Italy Star Regulations



CRITERIA OVERVIEW
The Italy Star is awarded for 1 or more days’ operational service

• in the Italy Campaign from 11 June 1943 to 8 May 1945,
• in the Aegean, Dodecanese, Greece and Yugoslavia after 11 June 1943,
• in Sicily up to 17 August 1943,
• in Sardinia up to 19 September 1943 and
• in Corsica up to 4 October 1943.

Royal and Merchant Navy service in the Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea and operations in and around the Dodecanese Islands, Corsica, Greece, Sardinia and Yugoslavia after 11 June 1943 would also qualify. Naval personnel must qualify first for the 1939 to 1945 Star before the Italy Star can be awarded. It is then awarded for service at sea in the Mediterranean between the above dates provided that it was directly connected with active operations in the Mediterranean theatre.

Certain special conditions apply governing award of the Star for those naval personnel entering service less than 6 months before the end of the qualifying period.

Naval shore-based personnel were covered by the Army qualification requirements.

Army personnel had no prior time qualification.

Air Force personnel had no prior time qualification. Qualification involved participation in aircrew service in at least one operational sortie within the Mediterranean theatre, including sorties from the Mediterranean area over Europe.

Entry into Austrian Territory during the last few days of the Second World War qualified for this star.



A total of 91,000 medals were issued to Canadians.



The Italy Star Association 1943-45 is a thriving body in the United Kingdom. The main reunion of the Association is in Chichester in May of each year, involving a service of Remembrance in Chichester Cathedral and a parade in the town. Members also take part in the march past the Cenotaph on Remembrance Day in London every year.

The motto of the Association is: "When you walk in peaceful lanes so green - remember us - and think what might have been" We do remember them.

 

France and Germany Star
(Clasp: Atlantic)

NZDF Medals - The France and Germany Star
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_and_Germany_Star
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility#france-and-germany-star
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/+080 France and Germany Star/default.htm



CAMPAIGN HISTORY
Concurrently to the campaigns in the Far East, the Allies were preparing for a final campaign in Northwest Europe. On 6 June 1944 British, American and Canadian forces landed on the beaches of Northern France.

Over the next year the British, American and Canadian forces advanced across Western Europe, liberating German occupied France, Belgium and the Netherlands. At the same time the Russians advanced from the East, through German occupied Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and Austria towards Berlin.

German forces surrendered when the Allies reached Berlin, bringing the war in Europe to an end on 8 May 1945.



STAR/MEDAL INFO

The France and Germany Star was awarded for operational service in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Germany and adjacent sea areas between 6 June 1944, the day of the Normandy landings and 8 May 1945, the date of the end of active hostilities in Europe.


DESCRIPTION
The (yellow copper zinc alloy) bronze six-pointed star has on the Obverse a circular centre with the Royal Cypher (GRI/VI monogram), surmounted by the Royal crown. The cypher is surrounded by a circlet containing the words ‘The France and Germany Star'.

The star has a height of 44mm and maximum width of 38mm and the Reverse is blank.



ENGRAVING
The reverse is in most examples plain, as an official no engraving policy was applied by British Commonwealth countries, except for Australia and South Africa. These two countries impressed the Reverse with the name of the recipient.




RIBBON
The ribbon for this medal, along with those of the other Second World War campaign stars, is reputed to have been designed by King George VI.

The ribbon for the France & Germany Star has five equal stripes of blue, white, red, white and blue and represent the national colours of the United Kingdom, France and the Netherlands.



CLASPS
Clasps are of yellow copper zinc alloy and are sewn directly to the face of the medal ribbon above the Star.

There is one possible clasps for this Star: PACIFIC.

Atlantic Clasp is awarded to those who became entitled to that corresponding Star subsequent to qualifying for the France & Germany Star.

Personnel qualifying for both the France and Germany Star and the Atlantic Star were awarded the first star they qualified for, and a clasp in respect of the second star.





RIBBON BARS, ROSETTES
Most ribbons on bars will have no embellishments but those who were awarded clasps are entitled to wear rosettes.

ATLANTIC - When the France & Germany Star ribbon is worn alone, ie on a ribbon bar & without medal, a silver rose emblem or rosette denotes the award of this clasp.




ELIGIBILITY RULES
NZDF Medals - The France And Germany Star Regulations




CRITERIA OVERVIEW
The France and Germany Star is awarded for 1 or more days’ service in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands or Germany between the above dates.

Naval personnel will qualify for service afloat in the North Sea and English Channel within certain specified boundaries.

RAF air crew, who have not already qualified by service on land, will qualify with one operational sortie over the appropriate land or sea area.

British uniform regulations stipulated that neither the Atlantic Star nor the Air Crew Europe Star would be awarded to a recipient of the France and Germany Star. Subsequent entitlement to the Atlantic Star was denoted by the award of the Atlantic clasp. A clasp for the Air Crew Europe Star was not issued as that Star could not be earned after 5 June 1944.

Army personnel who entered Austria may not qualify for this award, as their service is recognised by the grant of the Italy Star.

 

Defence Medal
(No Clasps)

NZDF Medals - The Defence Medal
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defence_Medal_(United_Kingdom)
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility#defence-medal-1939-to-1945
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/+090 Defence Medal/default.htm




STAR/MEDAL INFO
The Defence Medal was instituted to provide recognition for specified periods of service in non-operational areas subjected to air attack or closely threatened in respect of British military and civilian personnel for a range of service in the United Kingdom, and to British, British Commonwealth and British Colonial personnel who served outside their home countries in a non-operational area or in an area subject to threat such as air attack.

The length of qualifying service required for the award of the Defence Medal varied depending on where an individual served.



DESCRIPTION
The Defence Medal is circular and 36mm in diameter. The British issue medals were made of cupro-nickel.

The obverse shows an uncrowned effigy of King George VI, facing left, and bears around the outside edges the legend:
" GEORGIVS VI D : G : BR : OMN : REX F : D : IND : IMP. "
which translated reads George 6th, by the grace of god, King of all Britain, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India.

The reverse shows the Royal Crown above an oak sapling, flanked by two lions counter rampart as supporters. At the top are the start and end years of the Second World War: 1939 on the left and 1945 on the right. Wavy lines representing the sea are below the lions and at the base of the medal are the words:
" THE DEFENCE MEDAL "



RIBBON
The Defence Medal ribbon is flame coloured in the centre flanked by stripes of green. Each green stripe has a black pin-stripe running down its centre.

The colours symbolise enemy attacks on Britain’s green and pleasant land; the orange representing enemy attacks, and the black representing the black outs.




CLASPS
No clasps or bars were issued for this medal.


ELIGIBILITY RULES
NZDF - The Defence Medal Regulations




CRITERIA OVERVIEW
The Defence Medal was awarded to British military and civilian personnel for a range of service in the United Kingdom, and to British, British Commonwealth and British Colonial personnel who served outside their home countries in a non-operational area or in an area subject to threat such as air attack.

The length of qualifying service required for the award of the Defence Medal varied depending on where an individual served. For persons normally resident in the United Kingdom, three years' service in the United Kingdom was required (except for those who served in a Mine and Bomb Disposal Unit, for whom 90 days' service was required).

Service in the UK included those personnel working in headquarters, on training bases and airfields and members of the Home Guard. Home Guard service counts between the dates of 14 May 1940 and 31 December 1944. The Defence Medal was also awarded for non-operational service overseas, for example in India or South Africa.

Six months' (180 days) service overseas from or outside a person's country of residence in a non-operational area subjected to air attack or closely threatened (for example the United Kingdom, Palestine or Fiji) was required.
Or 12 months’ (360 days) service overseas from or outside a person's country of residence in a non-operational area which was not subjected to air attack and which was not closely threatened was required.”

Overall the qualifying time required depending on the area served is:

• UK - 1080 days
• Overseas, non-operational - 360 days
• Overseas, non-operational in an area deemed to be closely threatened or subject to air attack -180 days

Please check the links for the full criteria, they are quite complex.


Related post:
WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

 

War Medal 1939-1945

(No clasps)

NZDF Medals - The War Medal 1939 - 45
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_Medal_1939–1945
https://www.gov.uk/medals-campaigns-descriptions-and-eligibility#war-medal-1939-to-1945
http://www.defence.gov.au/medals/Content/+040 Campaign Medals/+100 World War II/+100 War Medal 1939-1945/default.htm




STAR/MEDAL INFO
The War Medal 1939–1945 was awarded across the British Commonwealth to all those who had served full-time in the Armed Forces or Merchant Navy for at least 28 days between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945 irrespective of where they were serving.

Operational and non-operational service may be counted, providing that it was of 28 days or more duration.

In the Merchant Navy, the 28 days must have been served at sea.

This medal is sometimes described as the "Victory Medal" for World War II, although that is not its correct name.

It is the minimum campaign medal issue to personnel serving in WW2.



DESCRIPTION
The War Medal 1939-45 is circular and 36mm in diameter and was designed by Edward Carter Preston. The British issue medals were made of cupro-nickel.


The obverse shows the crowned effigy of King George VI, facing left, and bears around the outside edges the legend:
" GEORGIVS VI D : G : BR : OMN : REX ET INDIAE : IMP. "
which translated reads George 6th, by the grace of god, King of all Britain and Emperor of India.

The reverse shows a triumphant lion trampling on the body of a fallen double-headed dragon symbolising the Axis powers. The dragon's heads are those of an eagle and a dragon to signify the principal occidental and oriental enemies. At the top, just right of centre are the dates 1939/1945 in two lines.



ENGRAVING
The medals were issued unnamed to British forces.

Those awarded to personnel of the Canadian Merchant Marine, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police who served only on the RCMP schooner St. Roch, the Royal Indian Army, South African and Australian forces were named on the rim.




RIBBON
The War Medal 1939 - 1945 ribbon consists of 5 equal width stripes of red, dark blue, white, dark blue and red. The white stripe in the middle has a narrow central band of red. These colours represent those in the Union Flag.




CLASPS

No clasps or bars were issued for this medal.*


RIBBON, RIBBON BAR
*Although no clasps or bars were issued, Regulations decreed:
a single bronze oak leaf emblem could be worn on the medal ribbon to signify a Mention in Despatches and
a silver oak leaf could be worn on the medal ribbon to signify an award of a King's Commendation for Brave Conduct.



ELIGIBILITY RULES
NZDF - The War Medal 1939 - 45 Regulations




CRITERIA OVERVIEW
The War Medal 1939-45 was immediately awarded if the service period was terminated by death, disability or wounding, or by cessation of hostilities on 2 September 1945.


The medal Is awarded to all full time personnel of the armed forces wherever they were serving, provided they had served for at least 28 days between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945.

In the Merchant Navy there is a requirement that the 28 days should have been served at sea.


It is also awarded to Australian Civilian Personnel who served afloat with the United States Army Small Ships Section between 8 December 1941 and 2 September 1945. Eligibility is the same as that for Merchant Navy personnel.

 

ENGRAVING, OR LACK OF

WW2 Stars issued to UK personnel were not officially engraved with number name and unit as they were for WW1. However Stars issued to Australian and South African personnel were officially impressed with names of recipient.

For examples and a fuller explanation of naming on Stars and Medals see these two posts later in the thread by Bamboo

http://ww2talk.com/forums/topic/51086-ww2-campaign-stars-medals-info-thread/?p=601267
http://ww2talk.com/forums/topic/51086-ww2-campaign-stars-medals-info-thread/?p=601337


Below is an example of what most Stars would look like on the reverse.

 

Clasps are of yellow copper zinc alloy and are sewn directly to the face of the medal ribbon above the Star.

The width is slightly less than the width of full-sized medal ribbon and the holes in each corner would be used when sewing the clasp to the medal ribbon.

A Clasp can denote the award of a further Star, or participation in a particular battle or campaign.

This example below of the France & Germany Clasp has been enlarged to show details. In line with the various rules about entitlement, this example would've been awarded instead of a France & Germany Star.



To represent the awards when not wearing the medals themselves ribbon bars are used and in order to denote the existence of a Clasp, a device is used, either a numeral or a rosette.

Campaign Clasps should not be confused with an oak leaf emblem which denotes a Mention in Despatches.


The 10 Clasps awarded in WW2 are listed below: See the entries for the relevant Star for details of clasp criteria.


1st ARMY CLASP
Awarded only in conjunction with the Africa Star.

8th ARMY CLASP
Awarded only in conjunction with the Africa Star.

AIR CREW EUROPE CLASP
Awarded only in conjunction with the Atlantic Star

ATLANTIC CLASP
Awarded in conjunction with the
Air Crew Europe Star, or
France and Germany Star

BATTLE OF BRITAIN CLASP
Awarded only in conjunction with the 1939-1945 Star.

BOMBER COMMAND CLASP
Awarded only in conjunction with the 1939-1945 Star.

BURMA CLASP
Awarded only in conjunction with the Pacific Star if that star was the first entitlement. Regulations stipulated that no personnel could wear both Stars.

FRANCE AND GERMANY CLASP
Awarded only in conjunction with the Air Crew Europe Star

NORTH AFRICA 1942-43 CLASP
Awarded only in conjunction with the Africa Star.

PACIFIC CLASP
Awarded only in conjunction with the Burma Star if that star was the first entitlement. Regulations stipulated that no personnel could wear both Stars.

 

Some background to the creation of the WW2 Campaign Medals, including the retrospective ones.

FINAL AGREEMENT AND DESIGN FOR AWARDS

This article covering the medals to be awarded for war service gives some idea of the intentions behind each medal. It was published in The Times, dated May 19, 1945:

Further to the original stars an announcement was made in December 2012 regarding the issue of a new Arctic Star and Bomber Command clasp.
First Arctic Star medals already in production - GOV.UK

Medal for Arctic convoy veterans

[hr]

A Casualty Branch branch memo for Officers in charge service records
From WO 162/205

Sub. No: 1383
Subject: Campaign Stars and Defence Medal - ACI 829 of 1945.

1 . It has been ruled that the grant of an honour or decoration etc. referred to in various paras of the above quoted ACI (e.g. para 6( b )( ii ))(1) and 7( a )( iii ) (1) means a British decoration etc conferred by H.M. The King.

2 . The award of a foreign decoration etc. in itself will NOT qualify the recipient for the award of Campaign Stars or the Defence Medal.

B.M. 3262/40 A.G.4 (Medals)

[hr]

BOMBER COMMAND CLASP & ARCTIC STAR
http://www.veterans-uk.info/arctic_star_index.htm
http://www.parliament.uk/documents/....DEFENCE-Arctic-star-Bomber-Command-Clasp.pdf


[hr]

Related WW2T threads:

Campaign medals - when were they awarded ?

Distinctions for War Service (1939 - 1945)

*
Arctic Convoy Vetrans snub by British Government

 

ISSUE OF MEDALS & THE MATTER OF MEDAL INDEX CARDS


As alluded to in an earlier post, medals were not, for the most part, sent out on an automatic basis to those who qualified for them. This is particularly true for Army personnel. There is nothing in the public domain (excepting Merchant Navy indexes available via TNA) to help research as is the case for eg WW1 Medal Index Cards. Entitlement can be verified through eg copy Service Records, AB64 (Soldier's pay book) or by contacting The Medal Office.

In most cases, men, and women, who by then had left the services had to apply for them. The process involved sending away a card and stating to which awards they thought they were entitled. Service records would then be checked against each of the criteria and awards either verified or declined.

On another thread on the forum Paul Reed posted an example of such a card
WW2 Medal Index Card

The example is also given below:





If no application was made, no campaign medals were distributed. Some personnel never bothered. So in some cases it is worth checking with The Medal Office, MOD, to see if any were issued.

[hr]

Related WW2T threads:
Medal card look up please

 

MERCHANT NAVY MEDAL INDEXES

As stated earlier Merchant Navy is an exception and their indexes are available to search and download via The National Archive, Kew.

This link is to the information and search engine page of their website.
http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/records/merchant-seamen-medals-ww2.htm
When searching for a person, the results returned will include a DOB which if known already is handy for cross reference. A discharge number is also provided, which helps with further research.

An example, minus name and DOB, normally shown on the left, is given below for illustration:


As can be seen they are a basic check list and no background information like medals roll numbers etc is provided.

[hr]

Related WW2T threads:
Merchant Navy medal files
Navy Medal Card Ww2
MOD Public Consultation on historic records

 

Accompanying paperwork, etc

Medals were issued with slips of varying types.
Differences include those sent to Next-of-Kin on behalf of the King, those sent to surviving personnel, those sent from different Departments.

See the post by Bamboo linked below for a thorough explanation of slips etc.
WW2 Campaign Stars & Medals info thread

Medals were sent out along with appropriate ribbons, in small cardboard boxes which were addressed to the recipient.






[hr]

A Casualty Branch branch memo for Officers in charge service records
From WO 162/205

[hr]

Related WW2T threads:
WW2 Medal racks

Medals

Pictures of medals?