Replica Defence Medal

This high-quality replica of the World War II Defence Medal commemorates the brave contributions of both military personnel and civilians who played crucial roles in defending Britain and the British Empire during WWII. It serves as a lasting reminder of their resilience and dedication during one of history’s most challenging periods.

Key Features:

• Design: Faithfully replicates the original medal, featuring the Lion of England and the King’s crown, with a ribbon design incorporating green, black, and orange stripes symbolising the defence and strength of Britain.
• Size: Standard medal size, mirroring the dimensions of the original award for authenticity.
• Material: Crafted from durable materials to reflect the look and feel of the genuine wartime medal.
• Historical Relevance: Recognises contributions such as civil defence, air raid precautions, and service in key wartime industries.

Key Dates:

• 1939-1945: The timeframe during which service qualified for the Defence Medal.
• 1945: The medal was instituted after the end of the war to honour both military and civilian contributions during WWII.

Historical Context:

The Defence Medal was introduced to acknowledge military and civilian efforts during WWII. It was awarded to individuals who contributed to the home front, including firefighters, police, air raid wardens, and members of the armed forces stationed in non-combat zones. The medal symbolises the united effort of a nation working together to defend its people and resources.

Educational Purpose and Teacher Notes:

• Understanding Wartime Roles: Use this medal to explore the diverse contributions of both civilians and non-combat personnel during WWII, including vital roles such as civil defence and industrial support.
• Symbolism and Meaning: Discuss the significance of the medal design and the colours of the ribbon, linking them to their symbolic meaning.
• Activities: Encourage students to create profiles or reports on the different roles awarded the Defence Medal, such as firefighters, nurses, and coastal defence personnel.
• Historical Connection: Use as a visual aid to support lessons on the home front, linking the medal to key events like the Blitz, the Evacuation, and wartime rationing.

This replica Defence Medal is a meaningful addition to historical displays, educational collections, or as a personal commemorative piece, helping to honour and preserve the legacy of Britain’s wartime contributions.