This article is concerned with the gallantry medals that were introduced specifically for the Police and Fire services.
Members of these two services are also eligible for the award of civilian gallantry awards such as the George Cross, George Medal and Queen’s Gallantry Medal.
THE QUEEN’S FIRE SERVICE MEDAL
The Queen’s Fire Service Medal was introduced on 19 May 1954, and could be issued for either acts of gallantry or distinguished service. In either case the medal was silver and 36 millimetres in diameter, with the obverse having the profile of Queen Elizabeth II.
The medal’s reverse is a standing figure with a sword and shield, with an inscription of “For Gallantry” or “For Distinguished Fire Service” around the face’s side.
The ribbon’s colours are shown below.
| TYPE | RIBBON COLOURS |
| Gallantry | Red with 3 thin yellow stripes each bisected by a thin dark blue stripe. |
| Distinguished Service | Red with 3 yellow stripes. |
THE QUEEN’S POLICE MEDAL
The Queen’s Police Medal was introduced on 19 May 1954 and replaced the King’s Police Medal. As with the Fire Service equivalent, the QPM could be issued for either acts of gallantry or distinguished service. In either case the medal was silver and 36 millimetres in diameter, with the obverse having the profile of Queen Elizabeth II.
The medal’s reverse is a standing figure with a sword and shield, with an inscription of “For Gallantry” or “For Distinguished Police Service” around the face’s side.
| TYPE | RIBBON COLOURS |
| Gallantry | Three silver stripes and two broad dark blue stripes, with thin crimson stripe superimposed on the silver stripes. |
| Distinguished Service | Three silver stripes and two broad dark blue stripes. |
Since the amendment to the George Medal warrant in November 1974, which made it possible to posthumously award the George Medal, the Queen’s Police Medal for Gallantry has rarely been awarded.