Canada, like most countries has honours distributed by different levels of government to thank its citizens for their dedication to their country. These honours usually fall into one of three categories: honours, decorations and medals. In Canada the first honours were given out as early as 1848 when Canadians and officers who had fought in campaigns between 1793 and 1814, particularly the War of 1812, were eligible to apply for the British Military General Service Medal though he medal would only be awarded to individuals who were still alive in 1848. Soon after Canada would issue its first medal, Canadian General Service Medal, in 1899. More honours, decorations and medals would soon follow.
Did you know that the CD, Canadian Forces Decoration, is classified as a decoration and not a medal? Decorations are awarded for acts of gallantry or exceptional service, such as the Victoria Cross, but can also be awarded for long service and good conduct. Medals are usually awarded for specific theatres of war such, such as the General Campaign Star which is awarded to those who participate in operations in the presence of an armed enemy.
Canadians can also receive foreign honours but may need to receive permission to wear them with their Canadian medals. Many foreign medals are not authorized to be worn with Canadian honours. Canadian honours are usually court mounted according to the Canadian sequence of wear.
The Care of Medals and Honours
The first part of taking care of medals and other honours is in handling and storing them properly. They should always be handled by the edges, and it is recommended to not touch the surfaces of the medals. It is also important to keep them from extreme temperatures, between 18 – 24°C is best, and away from sunlight as much as possible to avoid fading, especially of the ribbons. Medals are best stored in a closed box and only taken out, when necessary, this also helps to keep dust from getting to them.
Most medals and honours, Canadian and International, are made of non-tarnishing materials. They should not be plated, lacquered or treated in any way as this can cause damage or create an environment for tarnishing. If medals need to be cleaned it is best to do with a non-abrasive damp cloth for cleaning and drying. Metal polish and other abrasive cleaners should not be used as they can damage the medals.
You can find out more about Canada’s honours through the Government of Canada Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/defence/caf/honours-medals-awards.html
You can purchase medals boxes at The Mercury Shop. We also offer medal mounting service for all manner of medals, full size and mini, as well as the sale of miniature medals and some replica medals.
Leala Hampel, Supervisor