The 9th of November 2024 will mark the 35th year anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. Concrete barriers that kept Berlin divided for twenty-eight years were surged with an influx of German citizens from both sides of the wall, desperate to escape or see loved ones after decades of separation. What Was the Berlin Wall? The Berlin Wall...
Armistice Day marks the agreement to end World War I and begin peace negotiations on the 11th of November 1918. To this day, this historical moment is commemorated with two minutes’ silence across the UK, at 11 am on the 11th day of the 11th month. We now also recognise Remembrance Day on the second Sunday of November. This provides...
The 1st of September 2024, marks the 85th anniversary of the beginning of the Second World War. Lasting six years in total, from September 1939 to September 1945, it is recognised as the bloodiest war in our history. The conflict saw more than 50 nations serve in the battle, with over 100 million soldiers being deployed to fight. Great Britain...
Although all medals are awarded in recognition of a serviceman's contribution to a military campaign, gallantry medals hold extra prestige. These are only awarded in cases where a member of the Armed Forces has demonstrated acts of extreme bravery in order to save someone’s life during service. Here are some British gallantry medals in order of significance and how operational...
Military medals are a prestigious award given to servicemen in the Army, Navy and Royal Air Force to acknowledge acts of gallantry and in recognition of service. For this reason, there are strict rules surrounding the wearing of military medals, as well as guidelines for the correct display of commemorative medals. Guidelines for official military medals and active servicemen Official...
The 6th of June marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings - history’s largest seaborne invasion, code-named Operation Overlord. The Allied forces launched an attack on France by land, air and sea, which was occupied by the Nazi’s at the time of the invasion. D-Day was one of the most significant moments of the battle and this military victory...
This year marks the 75th anniversary of NATO - the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation. In this blog, we will take a look at the history of NATO, why it was formed and its relevance today. What is NATO? NATO is the largest peacetime military alliance in the world. The organisation was formed on the 4th of April 1949 and is...
There are many rules to adhere to when it comes to the correct wear of military medals, with even more guidelines to consider for commemorative medals. In this blog, we will discuss the key differences between these types of medals, with examples of medals that fall within these categories. What are Official British Campaign Medals? Official military medals are awarded...
There are many reasons why you may need to replace a military medal; it is possible to get a genuine replacement, but you must meet certain criteria. In this blog, we will explain how to apply for a replacement medal and the alternative options available. Ordering a Replacement Medal The Ministry of Defence Medal Office will only supply a replacement...
There are several ways that military medals can be presented, from medal display boxes to wearing them on the breast of your blazer. In this blog, we will look at each of these methods so you can preserve your military medals and ensure they are worn correctly. How to wear medals on a blazer and medal mounting It is acceptable...