1914 Star (5th August - 22nd November 1914)
|
Face |
A
four pointed star, the top point replaced by a crown. Across the face of the
star are two crossed swords, the points and handles of which form what might
appear to be four additional points. Partly covering the swords are a wreath and, within it, three scrolls. The centre
scroll bears the date 1914, the upper and lower scrolls bear respectively
`AUG.' and `NOV.'. Over the base of the wreath is the
cipher `GV'.
|
| Reverse |
Flat and plain, except
for the number, rank, name and regiment of the recipient impressed
upon it.
|
| Size |
Approx. 44 mm wide and 62
mm long including the ring suspension.
|
| Composition |
Medal and bar of bronze. Emblem
of silver.
|
| Ribbon | Approx.
32mm wide. From left to right as seen on the wearer the colours are red,
white and blue shaded and watered.
|
| Suspension |
The ribbon passes
through a ring, approx. 13mm in diameter which is integral with the piece
- the
whole being stamped out solid.
|
| Naming |
The
number, rank, name and regiment of the recipient are stamped on the reverse in
block capitals in three lines. The style of lettering varies somewhat from
medal to medal.
|
| Bars |
One bar bearing the dates
"5th Aug.: 22nd Nov. 1914"; one emblem, a rosette, to be worn in place of the
bar on the ribbon on the tunic when medals are not worn.
|
| Awarded |
The
medal was authorised in 1917 for award to all who served on the strength of a
unit or service in France
or Belgium
between 5th August and
22nd November 1914. This was principally an army
award, although a few Navy personnel qualified, having served ashore
at
Antwerp
during the qualifying period. A few women also received the award having served
in France and Belgium
as nurses or auxiliaries during the qualifying period. The award of the bar and
emblem was authorised in October 1919 to all who had been under fire in France
or Belgium
between the above dates. The award of the medal was automatic, but in order to
gain the bar and emblem a claim had to be submitted and substantiated. Since
this could only be done well after the war ended, some who had the necessary
qualifying service made no claim and received no bar or emblem. This applies
particularly to those who qualified but died later in the war, as many
next-of-kin made no claim. Around 378,000 Stars were issued.
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