The first thing that anyone notices about a military uniform is the shining round or star-shaped coin, aka the military medal. The next thing that sparks their interest is the medal bar that's placed on the medal’s ribbon. These small yet important elements reveal your achievements, as well as the names of the operations that you received awards for. If you want to know more about these medal accessories or get one for yourself – keep on reading!
What Do Medal Bars Represent?
Pick a medal mounting bar from the wide range of designs online! They’re readily available in different styles and finishes, and you can even order a mounting service from experienced military specialists. An accessory like this marks the campaign or operation for which you got your medal. On long-service medals, bars are also used to denote the duration of the service. The terms medal clasp and bar are used interchangeably for this item. You can attach multiple bars on your medal’s ribbon, as well as rosettes, oak leaves (signifying heroism), etc.
What are the Different Types of Medal Bars?
Before the 19th century, only high-ranking commanders received medals and decorations; awards occasionally went to soldiers or seafarers, but this was often the result of individual efforts. Each battle fought was represented by a clasp on the service medal.
Over the following 40 years, awarding medals to all soldiers and officers who participated in a campaign was a common practice across nations. The names of the significant battles the recipient had participated in throughout the campaign were typically etched on these medals. As medals became more popular among soldiers, so did military medal bars. With the popularisation of bars, the military started giving “General service” medals to any soldier serving in a general area or time. The bars helped identify the specific battle the soldiers fought in.
Nowadays, there are four different types of bars:
- Campaign medal mounting bar: They serve as a reminder of a specific campaign or region that the recipient participated in to earn the award. Campaign bars are often signified by rosettes;
- Achievement bar: These bars highlight a specific feat connected to the medal;
- Service bar: A service bar shows how long a person has worked for the organization giving out the award. The military and emergency services long-service medals often have this kind of bar;
- Multiple awards medal bar: This shows the number of decorations for excellence or outstanding service. If the soldier wears the ribbon alone, each bar is denoted by a rosette.
Other Elements of a Military Medal
- Ribbon: Military medals hang from the ribbons that go with them. These were initially made of silk, but after the 19th century, cotton became more and more prevalent. The equal stripes of the "1939 to 1945 Star," for instance, are dark blue to symbolize the service of the Royal and Merchant Navies, red to symbolize the service of the Armies, and light blue to symbolize the service of the Air Forces;
- Suspender: This fitting allows you to attach the ribbon to the claw either tightly or with enough flexibility which allows the piece to swivel. It comes in three different styles: basic, straight, and ornate. Some medals hang from a ring that connects the ribbon to the coin itself;
- Rosettes: When the ribbon is worn alone, soldiers wear little spherical roses attached to it, also known as rosettes; they signify the clasp's award;
- Oak leaf: Soldiers of the British Empire or the Commonwealth of Nations who take part in a campaign and are mentioned in dispatches but do not win a medal for it are still eligible to receive a certificate and wear a decoration. The military gives mention awards for a variety of services both on and off the field of battle.
The Importance of Military Medals
Medals and medal bars have unmatched importance in the military. The recognition and respect they bring affirm a person's extensive efforts. The Romans were the first to use a medallion or ornament awarding system. But as it gained popularity over time, every nation today has its own awards. Poland War Order of Military Valor and the Swedish award for Field Valor are two good examples.
A medal-winning display of bravery also guarantees increased accountability. It indicates that the officer now has more authority due to their higher rank. Achieving higher levels like the Medal of Honor typically takes years of effort. Additionally, not everyone is fortunate enough to earn the highest medal levels. To earn the next medal in the hierarchy, the officers must work persistently and meet many requirements.
It’s an undeniable reality that military medals are difficult to get. Some of the prominent and scarce medals include the Medal of Honor, Service Cross, Navy Cross, Silver Star, and Air Force Cross. Even modest acts of valour earn low-rank rewards; nevertheless, only extraordinary effort can ensure top-ranked medals.
The best thing about military medals is that they add respect and honour to your sleeve. Even the simplest of badges can significantly advance your career if you’re in the military. They validate additional distinctions for the recipient. As a result, they serve as a beacon that will project your respect and decency toward your peers.
