Air Force Medal EIIR
The Air Force Medal (AFM) EIIR was awarded to non-commissioned members of the Royal Air Force and other Commonwealth air forces in recognition of courage, exceptional flying skill and devotion to duty whilst flying on non-operational service.
Instituted in 1918 alongside the Air Force Cross (AFC), the Air Force Medal served as the equivalent award for non-commissioned personnel, recognising acts of bravery and outstanding airmanship outside active operations against an enemy.
Following a comprehensive review of the British honours system in 1993, rank-based distinctions for gallantry awards were removed. As a result, the Air Force Medal was discontinued and the Air Force Cross became available to personnel of all ranks.
The final award of the Air Force Medal was made to Flight Sergeant Richard Hardeman of the Royal New Zealand Air Force, announced in December 1993, marking the end of a distinguished chapter in Commonwealth military aviation history.
Today, the Air Force Medal remains highly sought after by collectors of RAF medals, aviation awards and British gallantry decorations.
- Traditionally die struck medal
- Queen Elizabeth II (EIIR) issue
- RAF and Commonwealth aviation gallantry award
- Awarded for courage and devotion to duty whilst flying
- Recognised non-operational flying service
- Discontinued following the 1993 honours review
- Final award announced in December 1993
- Ideal for collectors, display and replacement purposes
The Air Force Medal and the 1993 Honours Review
For much of its history, the Air Force Medal was awarded to non-commissioned personnel for courage, skill and devotion to duty whilst flying on non-operational service, while commissioned officers were eligible for the Air Force Cross.
Following reforms introduced in 1993, the British honours system removed many rank-based distinctions. The Air Force Medal was consequently discontinued, with the Air Force Cross becoming the single award available for all ranks undertaking qualifying service.
The final Air Force Medal award was announced in December 1993 and awarded to Flight Sergeant Richard Hardeman of the Royal New Zealand Air Force.
What was the Air Force Medal awarded for?
The Air Force Medal was awarded for courage, exceptional skill and devotion to duty whilst flying on non-operational service.
Who was eligible for the Air Force Medal?
The Air Force Medal was historically awarded to non-commissioned personnel of the Royal Air Force and other qualifying Commonwealth air forces.
Why was the Air Force Medal discontinued?
The medal was discontinued following the 1993 honours system review, which removed rank-based distinctions in gallantry awards. The Air Force Cross subsequently became available to all ranks.
Who received the final Air Force Medal?
The final award was made to Flight Sergeant Richard Hardeman of the Royal New Zealand Air Force and was announced in December 1993.
What replaced the Air Force Medal?
The Air Force Cross replaced the Air Force Medal as the equivalent gallantry award for all ranks.