Context

This First World War medal was authorized in April 1917, and the bar on 19 October 1919. It is often called the 'MONS STAR'.

Eligibility and Criteria

The star was awarded to all officers, non-commissioned officers and non-commissioned members of the British and Indian Expeditionary Forces, (including civilian medical practitioners, nursing sisters, nurses and others who were employed with military hospitals), serving in France or Belgium on the establishment of the British Expeditionary Forces between 05 August 1914 and midnight of 22/23 November 1914. The medal was not issued for service afloat.

Description

A bronze star measuring 1.75 inches in width. A four-pointed star has its uppermost point replaced by a crown. Across the face of the star are two crossed swords (blades upward), the blades and hilts of which protrude and thus form additional points of the star. For mounting purposes, the ring for suspension is stamped out solid with the piece and is attached to the top point of the crown.

On the obverse, in the centre are three scrolls; on the top scroll is the month AUG, with the date wreath and on the bottom of the wreath is superscribed the Royal Cypher GV (with the V inside a larger G).1914 and the month NOV on the middle and bottom scrolls. The three scrolls are surrounded by a laurel.

The reverse is plain and displays the recipient's number, rank, name and unit. The Canadian 1914 Stars most commonly show: 2-STA.HOSP.C.A.M.C. .

The watered ribbon is 1.25 inches wide and shaded left to right: red, white, and blue. The recipient of a bar wears a small silver rosette on the ribbon in undress.

Bars

5th Aug. - 22nd Nov. 1914: The bar was awarded to those who served under fire or were present on duty within range of the enemy mobile artillery in France or Belgium between the above dates and on the strength of units and formations contained in the official lists.

Historical Notes

• There were 160 awarded to 2nd Canadian Stationary Hospital members who served with the British Expeditionary Force beginning 6 November 1914.
• A few Canadians who were attached to British Units also received the medal.
• Approximately 378,000 medals including 145,000 bars were awarded to members of the British Expeditionary Force.