Military Awards

It is possible to get awards for outstanding bravery or service when serving with the military. The Queen actually chooses who is awarded the honours from a list of recommendations that is given to her by the Prime Minister, he in turn receives these from MP's who have had the names from members of the public, or alternatively the recommendation may follow a military chain of command to reach this point.

There are various forms of military awards and, in Britain, the highest ranking of these are the Victoria Cross and the George Cross. The Victoria Cross was first awarded during the Crimean War in the late 1800's. It was the first medal to be introduced in Britain to represent outstanding acts of bravery. It is engraved with the words 'For Valour' and is awarded for extreme bravery, self sacrifice or dedication to duty when facing the enemy.

The George Cross is joint with the Victoria Cross as the highest ranking award for gallantry and was introduced around 1940. It is given where for extreme acts of bravery or gallantry where the Victoria Cross is not appropriate. For instance, it can be awarded to civilians and in circumstances not facing the enemy. Notably, it was given to Malta during the Second World War for the islands gallantry as a collective.

Other awards include the medal for Distinguished Service Order, given to those who have shown outstanding leadership during a period of active service. The George Medal can also be awarded to civilians (like the George Cross) and is for acts of bravery when not facing an enemy.

The Royal Red Cross is an award that is used to honour nursing staff. It comes in either 1st class or 2nd class. 1st class holders are known as members whilst 2nd class holders are called associates. The 1st class medal is given for acts of exceptional devotion and competency, and the 2nd class is given for special devotion and competence.