BEM - GV 1st Type ribbon (Mil)
Full Size / Miniature

A fine quality replica of the GV BEM with the first type ribbon awarded until 1936.

Established by King George V in 1922, and formally entitled the Medal of The Order of The British Empire.

Awarded for meritorious service it also served as a third level gallantry award for services which did not merit the award of the GM or GC. It was awarded particularly for service during air raids in World War Two. From December 1957, a gallantry emblem of crossed oakleaves was established to be worn on all grades of the Order of the British Empire, including the medal. This was discontinued in 1974 when the Queen's Gallantry Medal was established.

Abolished in 1993 as part of the review of the honours system and re-established in 2012 and manufactured for the Crown by Worcestershire Medal Service.