Medal Research

If your ancestor took part in military operations from the 19th century onwards, there is a good chance that they would have earned a medal in recognition of their service.  Medal research can provide fascinating information relating to one's military career.  If you have a medal that you know nothing about or are trying to trace medals which were awarded to your ancestor I can help you.  There are a variety of medals which were awarded from the Napoleonic Wars onwards and can be split into three main categories

Campaign Medals

These are general awards given to those who served in a particular theatre.  They are the most common type of medal in that all those who took part in the conflict would be entitled.  Examples of these are the Waterloo Medal, The First World War Victory Medal and the Second World War 1939-1945 Star.

Gallantry Medals

These medals are the most sought after on the market as they mark men and women out for acts of bravery during conflict.  These medals were given to individuals only and were not widely distributed.  Examples of these types are The Victoria Cross, The Military Cross and The Distinguished Service Order.

Civilian Medals

Many civilians put themselves in harm's way during times of conflict and it was deemed appropriate to institute a range of medals awarded to civilians only.  Some were widely distributed but others were the civilian equivalent to gallantry medals, so were less common.  Examples of these are The George Cross, The Queen's Gallantry Medal and The George Medal.