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Units & Collections

Bruce and Dorothy Brown Collection

Inventory of Orders, Decorations, Medals and Flags Donated by Bruce and Dorothy Brown

Revised September, 1996

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Brown collection of orders and decorations and the cabinets which contain them were donated by Bruce and Dorothy Brown 1995-96.

The medals represent an eclectic collection of artefacts, selected for their aesthetic and historical interest. The majority are orders and medals that were awarded for both military and diplomatic distinctions to recipients in Canada and British Empire/Commonwealth. The collection also includes orders, decorations and medals from Belgium, Finland, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Romania, Imperial Russia, Turkey, the United States and the United Nations. In some cases the Browns have been able to add, as examples, museum copies to their collection. They have also added two WWII German and a Japanese flag.

The collection represents an interesting cross-section of the symbols and emblems of the differing traditions to honour acts of dedication, courage and loyalty. It is of artistic interest in that the items are fine examples of the badge-makers' and jewellers' skill. In many cases they show a high degree of craftsmanship in working with metal and enamel. The collection is of considerable interest as an adjunct to the Special Collections military collection. The medals are historically interesting as visible tokens of certain events and persons. In many cases the story of previous ownership is known and every effort has been made to identify that ownership in the display and this inventory.

The Brown medal collection is of excellent quality-indicative of the care and trouble necessary to acquire such items, and to ensure that they are genuine. There is a minimum of wear on the medals and badges and the ribbons that support them. Because the orders and decorations are of such high interest and artistic value they are placed on permanent display in the central 12 drawers of the cabinets. The other 6 drawers will be used to introduce other items from the Browns' collection and Special Collections.

The cabinets, a gift of the Browns, were designed to provide secure storage and exhibition space for the Browns' and other gift collections. They were custom made to house this collection and were designed by Alan Oliphant of Facilities Management to specifications set by Chris Petter, Special Collections Librarian. Built by Associated Sheet Metal of Victoria with locks provided by Price's Lock and Safe Ltd., the cabinets were finished in oak by the UVic carpenter's shop. A security package was specially installed in the University Archives and Special Collections area to protect them against theft.

The display was arranged by Stuart Nicholls. The catalogue for the collection was written and researched by James Thackray, a local medal historian and collector. Overall editing and production is by Chris Petter with help from Bill Thackray. This catalogue follows the exhibit from the top of the cabinet to the bottom and from left to right. We acknowledge that this inventory may contain omissions or errors and we would be pleased to hear from anyone with comments, corrections and or improvements.

(Top of Cabinet)

Canada and British Empire/Commonwealth

Victoria Cross
On display: #1, breast decoration-of indeterminate origin

Founded by Queen Victoria on January 29, 1856 or February 5, 1856. It is awarded for the most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy (Canadian regulations for the award of the VC include in the definition of "enemy", those met in peacekeeping operations).

Issued: 1, 351 total
94 to Canadians

Example: Lt. Alexander Dunn VC-Charge of the Light Brigade, Crimean War
L/Col. Charles C. Meritt VC
Sgt. Ernest Smith VC
M/Gen. Hon. George R. Pearkes VC, PC, CC, CB, DSO, MC, CD

George Cross
On display: #2, breast decoration-of indeterminate origin

Established by King George VI, September 24, 1940. It is awarded primarily to civilians and as an award for military services confined to actions for which military honours are not normally granted. Specifically, it is for acts of the greatest heroism or of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme danger.

Issued: 10 to Canadians

Example Air Commodore A.D. Ross GC, R.C.A.F.

The Island of Malta received the George Cross in recognition of conspicuous gallantry and fortitude displayed by the islanders while under devastating bombardment by the German Air Force in World War II.

Mr. Boulton's Trafalgar Medal, 1805
On display: #43, white metal issue [image obverse] [image reverse]

Mr. Davison's Nile Medal, August 1, 1798
On display: #28, petty officers issue in bronze gilt [image obverse] [image reverse]

(Drawer 1)

Canada and British Empire/Commonwealth: de Satge

The medals of L/Col. Sir Henry Valentine Bache de Satge KCVO, CMG, DSO
On display: #4a-#4i

de Satge, born in Malvern Wells, Worcestershire, England. Educated at Eton. ADC to the Governor of Western Australia, 1896-97; called to the Bar, 1906; raised and commanded a Battery, 3rd N. Midland Brigade, RFA, 1911; Lt. Col., 1916: served WW I 1916-1919 (DSO, CMG); commanded 298th Brigade, RFA; Private Secretary to First Lord of the Admiralty, 1922-24; Ceremonial Secretary, Colonial Office, 1925-31. Gentleman Usher in Ordinary to the Queen 1952-64; Extra Gentleman Usher in 1964. He died 10 June 1964.

#4 b) Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George:
- neck badge

Established by the Prince Regent (later George IV) acting on behalf of his father King George III on April 27, 1818. The purpose of this award is to recognise distinguished services in foreign affairs and in former colonies. It comes in three classes.

Motto: Auspicium Melioris Aevi (Omen of a better age)

Example: BGen J.A. Clark, CMG, DSO WW I

#4 a) Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order: neck badge and star

Established in 1896 by Queen Victoria and is conferred for extraordinary or personal services to the sovereign or the Royal Family. The order comes in five classes and includes three medals (gold, silver and bronze).

Examples: Mr. David Harris, MVO, CD-Chief of Protocol in BC
Mrs. Judith Larocque, CVO-Secretary to the Governor-General of Canada

Breast medals on bar

#4 c) Distinguished Service Order (George V) [also see p. 17]

Established by Queen Victoria September 5, 1886 as an award for distinguished or meritorious service under fire or under conditions equivalent to service in actual combat.

#4 d) 1914-15 Star

For service during WWI in a theatre of war between August 5, 1914 and December 31, 1915.

Issued: 71,150 to Canadians
2,366,000 total

#4 e) British War Medal

Awarded to all ranks for service between August 4, 1914-1920 in a theatre of war.

Issued: 427,993 to Canadians
6,500,000 total

#4 f) Victory Medal

Awarded to all ranks and civilians under contract for service between August 5, 1914 and November 11, 1918. Attached to the medal is a Mention-in-Dispatches emblem. It is an award for gallantry where the deed does not warrant reward of a medal for valour.

Issued: 351,289 to Canadians
6,500,000 total

#4 g) King George V Jubilee Medal, 1935

Awarded to mark the 25th year of the accession of King George V to the Throne.

Issued: 7,500 to Canadians
85,000 total

#4 h) King George VI Coronation Medal, 1937

Awarded to commemorate the coronation of King George VI on May 12, 1937.

Issued: 10,089 to Canadians
90,000 total

#4 i) Queen Elizabeth Coronation Medal, 1953

Awarded to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II on June 2, 1953.

Issued: 12, 500 to Canadians
138,214 total

(Drawer 2)

Canada and British Empire/Commonwealth: Rennell

The medals of James Rennell of Rodd, PC, GCB, GCMG, GCVO

James Rennell, GCB, GCMG(cr. 1915), GCVO, 1st. Baron, (cr. 1933), of Rodd, Herefordshire. Educated at Haileybury; Balliol Coll. Oxford (BA); Attaché Diplomatic Service, 1883, and various other diplomatic posts; transferred to Cairo, 1894, acting Agent and Consul-General on various occasions; HM's Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to Sweden, 1904-08; HM's Ambassador to the Court of Italy, 1908-19; Conservative MP 1928-32. Died 1941.

Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George
On Display #44, collar, sash, sash badge, and star

Established by the Prince Regent acting on behalf of his father King George III on April 27, 1818. The purpose of this award is to recognise distinguished services in foreign affairs and in the former colonies. Awarded in three classes. (N.B. the amusing acronyms of this order as follows: CMG-Call Me God, KCMG-Kindly Call Me God, GCMG-God Calls Me God)

Motto: Auspicium Melioris Aevi (Omen of a better age)

Examples: Rt. Hon. Sir Wilfrid Laurier, GCMG-former Prime Minister of Canada
Rt. Hon. Sir Robert Borden, GCMG-former Prime Minister of Canada

(Drawer 3)

Canada and British Empire/Commonwealth: Makins

The medals of Brigadier-General Sir Ernest Makins, KBE, CB, DSO

On display: #40 a-#40 k

Makins, born in London, 14 October, 1889, spent most of his military career in the Royal Dragoons. During the Boer War, he participated in the Relief of Ladysmith and the actions at Colenso, Spion Kop, Vaal Kranz and Pieter's Hill (DSO). During WW I he saw service in France and Belgium as a Brigade Commander of the 6th Cavalry (CB). He was Colonel of the Royal Dragoons, 1931- 1946 and MP from 1922-1945 (KBE, cr. 1938). He died on 18 May 1959.

#40 a) Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
- neck badge and star

Established by King George V on June 4, 1917, as an award for distinguished services. The highest two classes, entail admission to knighthood. Awarded in five classes with a military and a civil division.

Motto: For God And The Empire

Example: Sir Frederick Banting, KBE, MC-Nobel Prize for Medicine, 1934

#40 b) Companion of The Most Honourable Order of the Bath (military)
neck badge

Established by George I on May 18, 1725. A military order until 1847 when Queen Victoria decreed that it be also awarded for civil merit. It is recognised that the first class is considered the highest military honour to be obtained. The order has three classes and a civil and military division.

Motto: Tria Juncta in Uno (Three United in One)

Extract from Robert Werlich's book, Orders and Decorations of All Nations: "The History of the Order of the Bath,... by James C. Risk relates that Lady Hamilton whose husband Sir William Hamilton, Ambassador to Naples, possessed the Bath, commented after [ Lord ] Nelson also received this decoration, that her triangular (Nelson-Hamilton) household could be referred to as 'Tria Juncta in Uno'"

Examples: M/Gen. Hon. George R. Pearkes, VC, PC, CC, CB, DSO, MC, CD
Rt. Hon. Sir John A. Macdonald, GCB-first Prime Minister of Canada

Breast Medals on Bar

#40 c) Distinguished Service Order (Victoria)

Established by Queen Victoria September 5, 1886 as an award for distinguished or meritorious service under fire, or under conditions equivalent to service in actual combat.

#40 d) Queen's South Africa Medal (has erased 1899-1900 on reverse)

Awarded for service during the Boer War between October 11, 1899 and May 31, 1902. Bars were awarded for various battles and actions.

Example: Lt. E. J.G. Holland VC-Royal Canadian Dragoons

The bars seen with this medal are as follows: Cape Colony, Transvaal, Laings Nek, Relief of Ladysmith, Orange Free State, Tugela Heights.

#40 e) Kings South Africa Medal (Edward VII)

Awarded for those who served in South Africa on or after January 1, 1902 and had completed 18 months service before June 1, 1902. Always issued with the Queen's South Africa Medal.

#40 f) 1914 Star with bar

Sanctioned April, 1917 for service between August 5, 1914 and midnight November 22/23 1914 in Belgium and France. Awarded to all men and women of the British and the Indian Expeditionary Forces (including Civilian doctors, nursing sisters, nurses and others who were employed with military hospitals).

Example: 160 Canadians received this medal and all were members of the
2nd Canadian Stationary Hospital

#40 g) British War Medal

Awarded to all ranks for service between August 4, 1914-1920 in a theatre of war.

Issued: 427,993 to Canadians
6,500,000 total

#40 h) Victory Medal

Awarded to all ranks and civilians under contract for service between August 5, 1914 and November 11, 1918. Attached to the medal is a Mention-in-Dispatches emblem. It is an award for gallantry where the deed does not warrant reward of a medal for valour.

Issued: 351,289 to Canadians
6,500,000 total

#40 i) Queen Victoria's Jubilee Medal, 1897

It was awarded to members of the royal family, royal household, royal and distinguished guests attending celebrations June, 1897 for the 60th Anniversary of the reign of Queen Victoria.

Issued: 200 + to Canadians
338,796 total

#40 j) King George V Jubilee Medal, 1935

Awarded to mark the 25th year of the accession of King George V to the Throne,
May 6, 1935

Issued 7,500 to Canadians
85,000 total

#40 k) King George VI Coronation Medal, 1937

Awarded to commemorate the coronation of King George VI on May 12, 1937.

Issued: 10,089 to Canadians
90,000 total

(Drawer 4)

Canada and British Empire/Commonwealth: Tudor and Wright

The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem

On display: #36, Knight of Grace or Justice neck badge and star

Originally founded in the 11th century but reconfirmed by Queen Victoria May 4, 1888. Anyone can be admitted to the order at any level. It is awarded to persons who are doing or are prepared to do good work for the order. The order has five classes.

Example: Rt. Hon. Vincent Massey CC, CH, GCStJ, CD-former Governor-General of Canada

A decoration of Admiral Sir Frederick Charles Tudor, (1918) 3rd Sea Lord.

Tudor, KCMG (cr. 1918) was born 1863. Third Sea Lord, 1914-17; Commander-in-Chief, China Station, 1917-19; Admiral, 1921; President of the Royal Naval College, Greenwich, 1920-22; retired list 1922. He died 16 April, 1946.

#39 Knight Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George.

On display: #39, neck badge and star

Established by the Prince Regent acting on behalf of his father King George III on April 27, 1818. The purpose of this award is to recognise distinguished services in foreign affairs and in former colonies. Awarded in three classes.

Motto: Auspicium Melioris Aevi (Omen of a better age)

Examples: L Gen. Sir R.E.W. Turner, VC, KCB, KCMG, DSO (WWI)
and, the highest class.
Rt. Hon. Sir Wilfrid Laurier, GCMG-former Prime Minister of Canada
Rt. Hon. Sir Robert Borden, GCMG-former Prime Minister of Canada

Knights Bachelor

On display: #10

This award was founded by the Imperial Society of Knights Bachelor in 1908. It is not an order but it does entitle the recipient to the title of "Sir". It is awarded by the reigning monarch.

Example: Sir Peter Ustinov Kt, CBE-actor

The medals of Lt. Col. Rev. William Thomas Wright CIE, VD

On display: #37 a-#37 e

Wright (CIE, 1925) was Principal of Laurence Royal Military School, Ghora Gali, Punjab, India. He was Honorary Canon of Lahore; Late Commandant, Punjab Rifles.

#37 a) Companion of the Most Eminent Order of the Indian Empire-neck badge

Established by Queen Victoria to commemorate the beginning of her reign as Empress of India, January 1, 1878. It was an award for individuals who did not qualify for the Order of the Star of India. It came in three classes.

Motto: Imperatricis Auspiciis (Under the protection of the Empress)

#37 b) British War Medal Awarded to all ranks for service between August 4, 1914-1920 in a theatre of war.

Issued: 427,993 to Canadians
6,500,000 total

#37 c) Delhi Durbar 1911

Awarded to commemorate the accession of King George V as Emperor of India. The reverse has an interesting Hindi inscription: "Court of George the Fifth, Emperor of India, King and Ruler of the Country of the English, Delhi 1911". The "Durbar" is the Indian name for the ceremony acknowledging the King as Emperor.

#37 d) King George V Jubilee Medal, 1935

Awarded to commemorate the 25th year of the accession of King George V to the throne.

#37 e) Volunteer Officers Decoration (Indian Volunteer Forces), breast medal

Established by Royal Warrant July 25, 1892 by Queen Victoria, for 18 years long and meritorious service.

(Drawer 5)

Canada and British Empire/Commonwealth: Smith

A) Letter of congratulation on the award of the DFC, signed by Vincent Massey, Canadian High Commissioner, London, 1944.

B) Certificate for the award of the operational wings signed by Air Marshal L. S. Breadner, CB, DSC

Distinguished Flying Cross

On display: #8, to P/O John Stewart Madill Smith, DFC-No. 434 Sqn. RCAF
(presented by George VI)-see papers/clips

Established By King George V on June 3, 1918. Awarded to Officers and Warrant Officers for acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty performed whilst flying in active operations against the enemy.

Issued: 4,460 to Canadians

Example: Squadron Leader Robert W.R. Day, DFC, RCAF
- Burma, No. 67 Sqn. RAF

C) Letter of congratulations on the DFC to S. M. Smith's brother signed by A.L. Macdonald, Acting Minister of National Defence for Air.

D) Letter of congratulations on the DFC from Air Marshal L.S. Breadner, CB., DSC

E) Letter of congratulations on the DFC from Air Vice Marshal S.M. McEwen, CB, MC, DFC

(Drawer 6)

Canada and British Empire/Commonwealth: Penn

The medals of Major H.A. Penn, OBE-Royal Army Ordnance Corps.

A) Note from The Central Chancery of the Order of Knighthood to accompany the warrant of the award of the OBE

The medals of Major H.A. Penn, OBE. On display: #32 a-#32 d

#32 a) Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (1st type, military)

Awarded for the Murmansk Command, North Russia June 3, 1919. Established by King George on June 4, 1917 as an award for distinguished services. The highest two classes entail admission into knighthood. Awarded in five classes with a military and a civil division.

Motto: For God And This Empire

Examples: The Beatles in the 5th class (MBE's)
Sir Frederick Banting KBE, MC-Nobel Prize for Medicine 1934
Sir Edward Wentworth Beatty, GBE-President of the CPR
Mr. Edwin (Honest Ed) Mirvish, OC, CBE-Restored the Old Vic Theatre

#32 b) British War Medal

Awarded to all ranks for service between August 4, 1914-1920 in a theatre of war.

Issued: 427,993 to Canadians
6,500,000 total

#32 c) Victory Medal

Awarded to all ranks and civilians under contract for service between August 5, 1914 and November 11, 1918. Attached to the medal is a Mention-in-Dispatches emblem. It is an award for gallantry where the deed does not warrant reward of a medal for valour.
(Awarded for North Russian Expeditionary Force).

Issued: 351,289 to Canadians
6,500,000 total

#32 d) Order of St. Stanislas breast badge (Imperial Russian)

Awarded to Major Penn for services in Russia by the White Russians. It is probably of French manufacture because the pre-1917 issues of this award were in gold and of superior workmanship.
Originally founded by King Stanislas Augusta Poniatowsky of Poland on May 7, 1765 and incorporated with Russian orders from 1831- 1917. Came in three classes and the 1st class came with the right to hereditary nobility. Occasionally the star of the 1st class was awarded with the 2nd class (to foreigners).

B) Certificate for the award of a Mention-in-Dispatches (oak leaf on Victory medal ribbon)

C) Warrant granting OBE to H.A. Penn, signed by George V

(Drawer 7)

Canada and British Empire/Commonwealth

Crimean War Medal

On display: #59, breast medal with Sebastapol bar

Awarded to the British Forces in the Crimean War, March 28, 1854-March 30, 1856. Bars were awarded for the battles of Alma, Balaclava, Inkermann and Sebastapol.

Extract from Major L. L. Gordon's book, British Battles and Medals: "The whole story of the campaign reads more like comic opera than war. Lord Cardigan, for instance commanded the famous Light Brigade from his yacht Dryad lying in Balaclava Bay, on which he dined and slept every night by permission of the Commander-in-Chief. He came ashore on the morning of the 25th October , led the famous charge the length of the North Valley up to the Russian Guns, left his men there, and walked his horse back and returned to his yacht! The orders to charge were not his, so, having obeyed them, and having not the slightest use for his divisional Commander, Lord Lucan, or his Commander-in-Chief, he washed his hands of the whole affair! Subsequently, in true British fashion, he became a hero, Inspector General of Cavalry, a KCB, and Colonel of the 11th Hussars."

Arctic Medal 1818-1855

On display: #29, first issue breast medal (Victoria)

The medal was awarded for notable advances for arctic expeditions. It was also the first in a series of "Arctic and Polar Medals". The first issue was sanctioned January 30, 1857. The medals were issued unnamed. Many ships took part in voyages to the Arctic regions, and their crews were eligible to receive this medal.

Issued: 33 medals to the crew of the Prince Albert, searching for the
Franklin Expedition
187 medals to the Hudson's Bay Company , 1486 total

Tibet Medal

On display: #38, breast medal to Cooly Jaburaips Suner, Supply and Transport
Corps

Sanctioned February 1, 1905 for those who took part in the Tibet Mission and to troops accompanying it, who served at or beyond Silgari between December 13, 1903-September 24, 1904.

The following is an extract from Major L. L. Gordon's book, British Battles and Medals: "In July 1903, a trade Mission, under Colonel Younghusband, was sent by the Indian Government to meet the Tibet and Chinese officials in Gyantse. This Mission met with a hostile reception on the way and when it arrived at Tanu it was advised by the Tibetan general to return to Quangtong to avoid blood-shed. This Colonel Younghusband refused but ordered the disarmament of the Tibetan troops. On 31st March, 1904, the Tibetans fired on the column and suffered heavily for doing so. On the 8th of April, the 32 Sikh Pioneers stormed the Red Idol Gorge. A force under General Macdonald refused to negotiate, so that it became obvious that the way would have to be cleared right through to Lhassa. Colonel Brander was sent from Gyantse with a force to clear the Karo Pass, which he did on 6th of May."
In July, 1904, Colonel Younghusband stated that the Mission would proceed to Lhassa to demand an apology. Preceded by General Macdonald's force, the Mission arrived on the 3rd August, and a treaty was signed in the Portala Lhassa (which is depicted on the reverse of the medal)."

Canada General Service Medal 1866-1870

On display: #30, breast medal with bars for Fenian Raid 1866 and Red River 1870.

The medal was awarded to members of the Canadian and Imperial forces who fought against the Fenians (1866 and 1870) and Riel's first rebellion, in the Red River expedition (1870). The medal was issued to those that were on: a) active service in the field; or b) served as a guard at any point where an attack from the enemy was expected; or c) men detailed for some specific service.

The following is an extract from John Blatherwick's book, Orders, Decorations and Medals of Canada: "Fenian Raid 1866-Fenians is the name of the old Irish National Militia. After the Civil War in the USA, the American Fenians were bolstered by Civil War Mercenaries. In need of something to occupy this large force, John O'Neil crossed the Niagara River, Captured Fort Erie, and made his headquarters at Limeridge. The Fenians defeated a unit of the Canadian Militia at Ridgeway, but withdrew to the USA when a stronger force was sent to the area. President Johnson had many of the Fenians arrested.

Fenian Raid 1870-On 26 May 1870, O'Neil again crossed the border near Franklin, Vermont, but was forced back quickly and again arrested.

Red River 1870-Colonel Garnet Wolseley led an expedition to Fort Gary (Winnipeg), leaving Toronto on May 14 and reaching Fort Gary on August 24, 1870. They captured Louis Riel and prevented a Fenian raid on Manitoba."

Examples: L/Col Samuel Peters Jarvis, CMG
L/Col Louis Adolph Cassault, CMG

Issued: 15,300 to Canadians
16,668 total

North West Canada Medal, 1885

On display: #46, breast medal to Colour Sergeant John McLaren, Queen's
Own Rifles (also a badge "One Mile Championship of Ontario, 1883")

This particular medal was issued to McLaren as a member of General Middleton's First Column, under the direct command of Middleton during the Riel Rebellion.
Sanctioned July 24, 1885 by the Canadian government for issue on September 18, 1885. The medal was issued unnamed. Awarded to troops that took part in the suppression of the Riel Rebellion. Also, a grant of 320 acres and 80 dollars in script was given to the troops that participated in the campaign.

Issued: 5,650

Distinguished Service Order

On display: #5, breast decoration (George V)

Founded by Queen Victoria on September 5, 1886 as an award to officers of the Royal Navy and Army. It is awarded for meritorious or distinguished service in war. Furthermore, it is generally awarded to an individual in command, above the rank of major; although, it is also awarded to officers of and below the rank of major for acts of great valour.

Issued: 1220 to Canadians

Examples: Lt. Percy Girourd, DSO-Royal Engineers (Sudan)
L/Col. James Riley Stone, DSO and 2 bars-M.C. PPCLI (2nd Bar for Korea)
Air Commodore J.E. Fauquier, DSO and 2 bars, DFC
L/Cmdr J.H. Stubbs, D.S.O., R.C.N.

Canadian Centennial Medal, 1967

On display: #31, breast medal

Designed to Commemorate the Centennial of Canada's Confederation in 1867. Canadians were recommended for the award by governments and associations.

Example: L/Gen. William Carr, CMM, DFC, CD

Issued: 29,500

On display: #34, The medals of Gunner J. McWalters 32nd Field Battery, Royal Artillery

On display: #34 a) and #34 b) breast medals, silver issues

#34 a) Queens Sudan Medal 1896-1897

The medal was awarded in 1899 to all those who participated in the recapture of the Sudan, 1896-1897. It was awarded in silver and bronze.

#34 b) Khedive's Sudan Medal 1896-1908

Sanctioned February 12, 1897 by the Khedive of Egypt as an award to British troops to commemorate re conquest of Dongola Province in Sudan. The bar is Khartoum September 2, 1898. and was awarded for the Battle of Omdurman. Though the battle followed immediately, it is interesting to find a bar labelled differently than for the battle. The inscription on the obverse of the medal reads as follows: "Abbas Hilmi The Second, and 1314 Hegira"

General Gordon's Star for Khartoum (1884 ?)

On display: #22 silver issue

During the time of the siege of Khartoum, in order to raise morale, Gordon authorized a star to be cast for distribution to his officers and men. Its design was based on the Turkish Order of Medjidie. It was cast in sand which
demonstrates the circumstances of its manufacture.

Distinguished Service Cross

On display: #6, breast decoration (George VI)

Founded by King Edward VII in June 1901 and reconsolidated by King George V in October 1914. It is awarded to junior and senior officers of the navy and Royal Marines. (Action against the enemy).

Issued: 199 to Canadians

Example: V/Adm. Andrew Collier, CMM, DSC, CD-HMCS Cayuga

Military Cross (George V)

On display: #7, breast decoration to Lt. S. Hart, Ypres 1917

Established December 31, 1914 as an award for the army, between the ranks of major and warrant officer, for gallant and distinguished service.

Issued: 3,727 to Canadians
Example: Capt. Norman Buchanan , MC and two bars-RCA WW II
Fleet Air Arm pilot wings

On display: #49, sample for the Royal Navy (Elizabeth II)

Royal Flying Corps pilot wings

On display: #54, issued during WW I-of indeterminate origin

Blazer Badge of the Royal Naval Air Service

On display: #55

Royal Canadian Air Force pilot wings

On display: #62, Elizabeth II issue-worn on left breast

Royal Canadian Air Force pilot wings

On display: #53, George VI issue-worn on left breast

Mr. Boulton's Trafalgar Medal, 1805

On display: #43, white metal issue

This medal was given by Mr. Boulton, a manufacturer of Birmingham to the survivors of the Battle of Trafalgar. Around the edge is the inscription "FROM M: BOULTON TO THE HEROES OF TRAFALGAR" It was given in silver, bronze-gilt, bronze and white metal according to the rank of the recipient.

Mr. Davison's Nile Medal, August 1, 1798

On display: #28, petty officers issue in bronze gilt

This medal was the personal award from Nelson's prize agent Mr. Davison, to the officers and men present at the Battle of the Nile. Admirals and captains received it in gold, other officers in silver, petty officers in bronze gilt and remainder in bronze.

Air Force Cross

On display: #9, breast decoration (George VI)

Established June 3, 1918 by King George V as an award to officers and warrant officers for an act or acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty whilst flying but not in active operations against the enemy.

Issued: 538 to Canadians

Example: W/C Howard Allan Morrison DSO, DFC, AFC, No. 426 Sqn. RCAF

Miniature medals group

On display: #42, medals worn for evening dress

Distinguished Service Order, Military Cross, 1914-15 star, British War Medal, Victory Medal with Mention-in-Dispatches.

(Drawer 8)

Belgium

Order of Leopold

On display: #19, Commander (civilian)-neck badge

Founded July 11, 1832 by King Leopold I of the Belgians. It is awarded for services to the crown and Belgium, to foreigners and Belgians. Military holders of the order below the officer rank receive an annual pension. The order has three divisions (civil, maritime, military) and within each division there are five classes.

Motto: L'Union fait la force (Unity makes strong)

Order of Leopold II

On display: #50, Grand Cross-sash, badge, and star

Founded by King Leopold II of the Belgians on August 24, 1900, while he was King of the Independent state of the Congo. The award is for services to the crown. It is conferred on civilians and the military, on Belgians and foreigners. The order comes in five classes. Associated with the order is a medal which comes in gold, silver, and bronze.

Motto: L'Union fait la force-Errdracht maakt Macht (Unity makes strong)

Order of Leopold II

On display: #35, Commander-neck badge

Founded by King Leopold II of the Belgians on August 24, 1900, while he was King of the Independent state of the Congo. The award is for services to the crown. It is conferred on civilians and the military, on Belgians and foreigners. The order comes in five classes. Associated with the order is a medal which comes in gold, silver, and bronze.

Motto: L'Union fait la force-Errdracht maakt Macht (Unity makes strong)

Order of Leopold

On display: #27, Officer (civilian)-breast badge

Founded July 11, 1832 by King Leopold I of the Belgians. It is awarded for services to the crown and Belgium, to foreigners and Belgians. Military holders of the order below the officer rank receive an annual pension. The order has three divisions (civil, maritime, military) and within each division there are five classes.

Motto: L'Union fait la force (Unity makes strong)

(Drawer 9)

France, United States, Malta, United Nations, Turkey

France

Legion of Honour

On display: #15, Commander-neck badge

Established by Napoleon Bonaparte on May 19, 1802. It is awarded to French citizens and foreigners, male or female, for outstanding services on behalf of France. The order has five classes.

Example: Former Quebec Premier Rene Levesque-Grand Officer
The late Jean Paul Vinay of The University of Victoria-Chevalier

National Order of Merit

On display: #16, Commander-neck badge

Established December 3, 1963 by President Charles De Gaulle. It is awarded for outstanding social, economic or military merit not qualifying for the Legion of Honour. The order is awarded in five classes.

Croix de Guerre (Cross of War)

On display: #25, breast decoration WW I issue

Awarded to any member of the French armed forces who are mentioned for outstanding bravery or ability in dispatches by a high ranking officer.

United States of America

Legion of Merit

On display: #17, Chief Commander-star and lapel badge

Established by an act of Congress, July 20 , 1942, as an award for meritorious conduct.. It has four classes. It is awarded to foreigners in the first three classes and to members of the United States Armed Forces in the fourth class.

Examples: Admiral Sir John Cunningham-First Sea Lord (UK)
Air Marshal Robert Leckie, DSO, DSC, DFC. R.C.A.F. (Commander)

Malta

Sovereign Military Hospitaler Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes and of Malta

On display: #14, Knight of Justice neck badge

The Catholic Order of Malta is the oldest order of Knighthood continually in existence. The Order of St. John was established in Jerusalem in the eleventh century by an Italian layman named Gerard who, with the permission of the Caliph of Egypt, built a hospital for the care of sick and needy pilgrims in the Holy Land.

Today the order is in Rome, under the protection of the Vatican. It is awarded for good work in the order and for those who are prepared to do good work for the order. The order has three classes.

United Nations

United Nations Cap Badge

On display: #61, standard issue for UN peace-keepers

Turkey

Order of Medjidie

On display: #21, Commander-neck badge

Founded August 1852 as an award for special services to the state either civil or military. Five classes.

Motto: Zeal, Devotion, and Loyalty-1268 (1852)

(Drawer 10)

Greece, Italy

Greece

Order of the Phoenix

On display: #11, Royal Issue, Grand Commander-neck badge and star

Founded May 13, 1926 as a republican order reserved for foreigners. After the restoration of the monarchy in 1936 it was recognised by the kingdom. It is awarded to those who distinguish themselves in public administration, science, arts and letters. The order has a civil and a military division.

Italy

Constantinian Order of St. George of the Two Sicilies
On display: #12, Grand Officer-neck badge, star, miniature, lapel pin

Founded, some say, in 313 A.D. or by Byzantine Emperor Isaac II in 1190 AD. It is awarded for outstanding civil or military merit. The order comes in five classes. (N.B. The President of Italy officially recognised the order by a decree (of July 20, 1963), and authorised Italian citizens to wear its decoration without restriction.) It is presently awarded by the Grand Master Prince Ferdinando di Borbone, Duke of Castro and head of the Royal House of the Two Sicilies.

(Drawer 11)

Portugal, Romania, Russia, Finland

Republic of Portugal

Military Order of Christ

On display: #13, Commander (Type II)-neck badge and star

Founded August 14, 1318 by King Denis and confirmed by Pope John XXII in 1319, who reserved the right of the Holy See to nominate Knights as well as by Portugal. It is awarded for civil merit and may now be conferred on Portuguese citizens and on foreigners for outstanding services to the Republic. The order comes in five classes.

Kingdom of Romania

Order of the Star

On display: #47, Grand Cross-sash badge and star

Established by King Carol I as an award for civil and military merit. It was awarded to foreigners as well as Romanians. Five classes.

Motto: In Fide Salus (Salvation lies in Loyalty)

Order of the Crown

On display #26, 4th Class with swords (Type II) breast badge

Established by King Carol on March 14, 1881 as an award for exceptional services to the state. The order has five classes.

Motto: Prin Noi Insine (By ourselves)

Imperial Russia

Order of St. Stanislas

On display: #51, star of the Grand Cross and or 2nd class star

Originally founded by King Stanislas Augusta Poniatowsky of Poland on May 7, 1765 and incorporated with Russian orders from 1831- 1917. It came in three classes and the 1st class conferred the right to hereditary nobility. Occasionally the star of the 1st class was awarded with the 2nd class to foreigners.

Motto: Praemiando Incitat (He encourages reward)

Finland

Order of the White Rose

On display: #18, Commander Grand Cross-sash and sash badge

Established February 28, 1919, as an award for military and civil merit, by the Regent, Baron Carl Gustav Mannerheim. Awarded in 6 classes, one a medal.
Motto: Isanmaan hyvaksi (For the Good of the Fatherland)

Example: HM Queen Elizabeth II

(Drawer 12)

Germany

Royal Order of the Guelph

On display: #60, breast badge-of indeterminate origin

Founded by the Prince Regent, later King George IV of England, on August 12, 1815 and revised on May 20, 1841 as King Ernst August of Hanover. The order came in four classes and was awarded for military and civil merit.

Motto: Nec aspera terrent (Nor do difficulties daunt)

Iron Cross 1st Class (Nazi Germany)

On display: #33, breast cross

War time decoration awarded for exceptional bravery in the face of the enemy and for outstanding service in the leadership of troops.

Order Pour le Merite

On display: #20, neck badge-of indeterminate origin

Founded May 12, 1667 as the Ordre de la Generosite by Elector Friedrich (later Friedrich I of Prussia). It was an award for civil and military merit and was the Prussian equivalent of the Victoria Cross. The award came in 2 classes (military) and 1 class (civil). Today the civil division is still awarded by the German Republic. (also known as the "Blue Max")

Examples: Hermann Göring (WW I)

Luftwaffe Pilot/Observer Qualification Badge

On display: #58, of indeterminate origin

Group of Seven Medals on Bar

On display: #23 a-#23

#23 a) Iron Cross 2nd Class

Re-instituted by Kaiser Wilhelm II August 5, 1914. It was awarded for bravery in battle and came in three classes.

Examples: Adolf Hitler
Paul von Hindenburg-last President of Weimar, Germany

#23 b) Friedrich August Medal

Established in 1905 as an award for personnel not above the rank of sergeant-major (Feldwebel) for meritorious service in war and peace.

#23 c) Cross of Honour for the Great War 1914-1918

Established July 13, 1934 by President von Hindenburg as an award for front line fighters. Decrees up to 1944 allowed Austrians, Sudeten Germans, Memellanders and others to receive this medal.

#23 d) War Commemorative Medal (Austrian Republic)

Established December 21, 1932 for all ranks who served in WW I. The crossed swords was for front line troops, prisoners of war and those wounded.

#23 e) Cross of Merit for War Aid, 1916 (Prussian)

Established as a decoration for special merit to German war aid activities, for men and women, without distinction of rank.

#23 f) War Commemorative Medal For Combatants (Hungary)

Established May 26, 1929 by the Regent, Admiral Horthy. It was awarded to those troops who participated in the 1st World War.

#23 g) War Medal 1915-1918 (Kingdom of Bulgaria)

Established December 9, 1935 by King Boris III. It was awarded to all ranks who served during WW I.

Group of Five Medals on Bar

On display: #24a-#24e

#24 a) Iron Cross 2nd class (Prussian)

Re-instituted by Kaiser Wilhelm II August 5, 1914. It was awarded for bravery in battle and came in three classes.

Examples: Adolf Hitler
Paul von Hindenburg-last President of Weimar Germany

#24 b) Order of the Lion of Zahringen (Baden)

Founded by the Grand Duke Karl Friedrich of Baden December 26, 1812 as an award for civil or military merit. The order came in five classes.

Motto: Für Ehre und Wahrheit (For Honour and Truth)

#24 c) Cross of Honour for the Great War 1914-1918

Established July 13, 1934 by President von Hindenburg as an award for front line fighters. Decrees up to 1944 allowed Austrians, Sudeten Germans, Memellanders and others to receive this medal.

#24 d) Army Service Medal Class II

#24 e) Faithful Service Cross Decoration

Established by the Nazi government for 40 years service in the public service.

NSDAP Senior Official Arm band

On display: #57

German Red Cross Decoration 1st Class

On display: #64, Nazi issue, of indeterminate origin

Founded by the German Red Cross in 1922 and under the authority of the President of the German Red Cross.

The German Cross 1st Class

On display: #45, breast star worn on right breast pocket

Awarded for those who already held the Iron cross 1st and 2nd classes, and who continued to distinguish themselves in action for a minimum of seven times.

Luftwaffe Wireless Operator/Air Gunner Qualification Badge

On display: #56

Pilot Badge for WW I (Prussian)

On display: #48, pinned on the breast pocket

General Officers (army) Collar patches

On display: #63, WW II issue

Nazi political Leader Collar Tabs.

On display #52

Knights Cross with Oak-leaves and Swords (German Republic)

On display: #41, neck badge

War time decoration awarded for exceptional bravery in the face of the enemy and for outstanding service in the leadership of troops. This example is a "denazified" replacement medal issued after 1957.

(Drawer 13)

Battle Flag of Japan

On display: #66

A Rising Sun battle flag, with Shinto prayers. These flags were sought-after souvenirs by Allied troops.

Names were the names of soldiers memorialised on the flag.

(Drawer 14)

Nazi German Flags

#65 a) National war flag (Reichskriegsflagge), 1935-1945 (Iron Cross in the canton next to the hoist).

Used by all armed forces -- by the Navy as their ensign

#65 b) Reich service flag, 1935-1945

In the canton, the national "eagle" emblem of the Third Reich. (This flag was authorized for use by certain naval ships and units not generally permitted to fly the national war flag.)

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