- Time Period: World War I
- Institution: 1919
- Country: United Kingdom
The Royal Air Force Long Service and Good Conduct Medal is awarded to regular members of the Royal Air Force in recognition of their long service and exemplary conduct.
Instituted by King George V in 1919, following the establishment of the world’s first independent air force, the medal was initially awarded to non-commissioned officers and airmen. The criteria were later broadened to include officers who had served a minimum period in the ranks before being commissioned. Since 2016, all regular members of the RAF, including officers who have never served in the ranks, are eligible for this medal.
Originally, the medal was awarded after eighteen years of unblemished service, later reduced to fifteen years from December 1, 1977. An airman became eligible upon completing the requisite service period, provided there were no disqualifying offenses. Recommendations for the medal required a commanding officer’s endorsement and were awarded only to serving personnel. Before 1944, up to four years of service in the Royal Navy or British Army could count towards the RAF service requirement. During wartime or emergencies, the medal could be awarded for distinguished service without the usual time or conduct requirements.
The Royal Air Force Long Service and Good Conduct Medal Design
The silver medal is a 36-millimeter disk, with the obverse featuring the effigy of the reigning monarch.
The reverse displays the RAF eagle with outstretched wings, surmounted by the crown, and the inscription “FOR LONG SERVICE AND GOOD CONDUCT.” The clasp features an eagle with outstretched wings and a crown, with a silver rosette on the ribbon bar denoting the award in undress uniform.
The ribbon is 32 millimeters wide with distinct bands of white, dark blue, and crimson.
More British Long Service and Good Conduct Decorations
The British military has instituted several Long Service and Good Conduct Decorations, each honoring the dedication and exemplary service of its personnel across different branches. Here are some other ones from different time periods:
The Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal
The Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal was instituted in 1951 and is awarded for twenty aggregate years of service in the police.
The Medal for Long Service and Good Conduct
The Medal for Long Service and Good Conduct was instituted by King George V in 1930 and initially awarded to Regular Force officers.
The Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal
This Army long service medal was instituted by King William IV in 1830 and remained in use for a hundred years, until 1930.
The Permanent Forces of the Empire Beyond the Seas Medal
The Permanent Forces of the Empire Beyond the Seas Medal was established in 1910 to supersede the several local versions of the Army one.
The Naval Long Service and Good Conduct Medal
This long service medal, established in 1848, is still awarded to regular members of His Majesty’s Naval Service.
Find these medals online:
