What is the George Medal?
Q: What is the George Medal?
A: The George Medal (GM) is the second highest civil award of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth. It ranks below the George Cross and is only awarded for non-combat acts of bravery.
Q: When was it created?
A: The GM was created on 24 September 1940 by King George VI.
Q: Why was it created?
A: It was created during the height of The Blitz, as a way to reward acts of civilian courage.
Q: How does one receive a GM?
A: The medal is granted in recognition of "acts of great bravery". It may be awarded to military personnel for gallant conduct that is not in the face of the enemy.
Q: Are there any additional awards associated with a GM?
A: Bars are awarded to the GM in recognition of further acts of bravery meriting the award. In undress uniform or on occasions when only the medal ribbon is worn, a silver rosette can be worn on the ribbon to indicate each bar.
Q: What postnominal letters do recipients get?
A: Recipients are entitled to use postnominal letters GM after their name.
Q: Where can details about all awards be found?
A: Details about all awards to British and Commonwealth recipients are published in the London Gazette.
