Page 260 - (DK) Smithsinian - Military History: The Definitive Visual Guide to the Objects of Warfare

258

MILITARY MEDALS ◀ WATERLOO MEDAL
AND IMPERIALISM 1815–1914
BEFORE 1914 Date 1815
Origin UK
Conflict Napoleonic Wars
The 19th century saw the birth of the military medal as we
know it today. Previously such recognition of notable valor The first award to be issued
to all ranks in a specific
was reserved largely for those of high rank. During the campaign, this was also the
Napoleonic Wars, however, medals began to be awarded first to be awarded to the
to both officers and other personnel. The most prestigious next-of-kin of fallen soldiers.
medals were for exceptional acts of bravery, but others ▶ INDIA GENERAL
were given simply for participation in an action. The medals SERVICE MEDAL
varied from coinlike medallions to more elaborate designs Date 1854
incorporating national symbols and mottos. In many cases Origin UK
clasps were used to specify the action or battle. Conflict Indian campaigns
This medal was awarded to
▼ HANOVERIAN MEDAL British and Indian servicemen
FOR WATERLOO from 1854 to 1895. Different
ribbon clasps denoted specific
Date 1815 battles or actions.
Origin Hanover
Y Conflict Napoleonic Wars ◀ VICTORIA CROSS
Authorized by George, the British
INDUSTR of Hanover, this medal was given to Origin UK
Date 1856
Prince Regent, in his position as Elector
Hanoverian troops who survived the
The Victoria Cross is the UK’s premier award for
Battle of Waterloo (1815).
gallantry. Originally struck from the gunmetal of
captured Russian cannon, it was introduced to honor
acts of exceptional valor in the Crimean War (1853–56).

Head of the Prince
Regent on the front Reverse (shown)
depicts
Britannia with
a lion

▶ TURKISH CRIMEA MEDAL ▲ INDIAN Initially given to British and
Date 1855 MUTINY MEDAL Indian troops who had fought
Clasp denotes the Indian rebels, this award
Origin Turkey actions in which Date 1858 was later extended to civilians
Conflict Crimean War recipient was Origin UK who had played a role in the
involved Conflict Indian Rebellion suppression of the revolt.
The Turkish Crimea Medal, “Kinm
Harbi Madalyasi,” was awarded by Sultan
Abdulmecid I of the Ottoman Empire ◀ PUNJAB MEDAL This award was made to
to all allied military personnel, including Date 1849 officers and men of the British
British, French, and Sardinian troops, who Army and East India Company
fought in the Crimean War (1853–56). Origin UK who served in the Punjab
Conflict Punjab campaign campaign of 1848–49.