The 1939 to 1945 Star

Description

Star, six-pointed, in copper-zinc alloy approximately 44.5mm in height and 51mm in width. The obverse design bears the ornate ‘GRI VI’ cypher in a circular centrepiece surrounded by an edged band bearing text: ‘THE 1939-1945 STAR’ surmounted by a crown. The star is suspended (via a linked ring on the tip of the uppermost ray) by a ribbon 31mm in width, of three equal vertical stripes of navy blue, red and light blue. The design of the ribbon is attributed to His Majesty King George VI. The ribbon colours represent the Royal and Merchant Navies, the Army and the Royal Air Forces.

This was the first of the series of eight campaign stars given to all participants in the campaigns of the Second World War.

The 1939 to 1945 Star is awarded to personnel who completed operational service overseas between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 (2 Sept 1945 in Far East).

Requirements

To apply for the 1939 to 1945 Star, the person must have:

• 180 days operational service in the army in the above qualifying areas
• 180 days operational service as ground crew in the RAF (Royal Air Force) in the above qualifying areas
• 60 days operational service as aircrew in the RAF in the above qualifying areas
• 180 days service afloat in operational areas in the Royal Navy in the above qualifying areas

The star is worn with the dark blue stripe furthest from the left shoulder.

Recipients of the 1939-45 Star may also be eligible for:

• Battle of Britain Clasp
• Bomber Command Clasp

Clasps are worn on the ribbon of the 1939 to 1945 Star.

To apply for the Battle of Britain Clasp to the 1939-45 Star, the person have:

• served as aircrew on a fighter aircraft
• been engaged in the Battle of Britain between 10 July 1940 and 31 October 1940

To apply for the Bomber Command Clasp to the 1939-45 Star, the person must have:

• served as aircrew with a UK based Bomber Command Unit
• served between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945