Colonial Auxiliary Forces Officers' Decoration - VD

This long service decoration was superseded by the Canadian Efficiency Decoration and was established in 1899.

This decoration is awarded to non-permanent active militia, with the rank of commissioned officers, for 20 years of commendable service. It was awarded from February 4, 1901 until being discontinued on December 31, 1931.

The decoration is oval, 1.25 inches by 1.44 inches. For mounting, a small ring behind the top of the crown attaches to a small ring attached to the bottom of the thin wire suspender. The silver top broach is decorated with laurel.

The obverse has the Royal Cypher in the centre in silver gilt, surrounded by a silver band bearing the inscription COLONIAL AUXILIARY FORCES. The oval surmounted by the Imperial Crown in silver gilt. The Royal Cyphers VRI, ERI VII, and GRI appeared on the decorations issued to Canadians.

The reverse is plain for engraving names in the crown area at top.

The dark green ribbon is 1.5 inches wide.

The bar is awarded for 20 additional years of service.

The recipient is entitled to use the letters “VD” after their name.

• The number of decorations awarded to Canadians, by reign, was as follows:
  • Queen Victoria (VRI) 850
  • King Edward VII (ERI VII) 250
  • King George V (GRV) 1,660