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British Empire Awards & Medals 1917-2023

Discover this fascinating resource of British honours featuring over 320,000 names from prestigious awards such as the British Empire Medal (BEM) and the Knight Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (GBE). Spanning over a century of recognition for military, civic, and public contributions, this collection offers a unique glimpse into the lives of those who shaped history. Whether uncovering the story of a decorated ancestor or connecting to a piece of your family’s past, these records bring your heritage to life, revealing the extraordinary achievements of individuals across the British Empire and beyond.

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Discover this fascinating resource of British honours featuring over 320,000 names from prestigious awards such as the British Empire Medal (BEM) and the Knight Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (GBE). Spanning over a century of recognition for military, civic, and public contributions, this collection offers a unique glimpse into the lives of those who shaped history. Whether uncovering the story of a decorated ancestor or connecting to a piece of your family’s past, these records bring your heritage to life, revealing the extraordinary achievements of individuals across the British Empire and beyond.

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What can these records tell me?

This database was created by independent researcher, Chris Daniell. It combined the information from over 320,000 individuals. Each entry will include a combination of the following facts:

  • First name
  • Last name
  • Service number (when available)
  • Residence
  • Regiment
  • Date of award
  • Honour or medal
  • Additional information
  • London Gazette title
  • London Gazette number
  • Text from the Gazette
  • Link to Gazette issue

Discover more about these records

British Empire Awards & Medals are honours and decorations established within the framework of the British Empire (and later the Commonwealth) to recognize military, civilian, and public service contributions. These awards reflect the evolving priorities and history of the British monarchy and government, particularly from the early 20th century onward.

Medals included are:

  • Knight Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (GBE) - The highest rank within the Order of the British Empire. Recipients are typically individuals of significant achievement or contribution at a national or international level. This honor confers the title "Sir" or "Dame."
  • Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (DBE) - Second-highest rank. Women awarded this honor are given the title "Dame" (equivalent to the male "Knight Commander, KBE").
  • Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) - Recognizes prominent national or regional contributions in any field. It does not confer a title but is highly prestigious.
  • Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) - Honors individuals making significant contributions at a regional level or to their profession.
  • Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) - Awarded for impactful contributions at a local level, including voluntary work.
  • British Empire Medal (BEM) - Recognizes hands-on service to the community, often for a sustained period. It is not a rank within the Order but is closely associated with it.

Honours and awards are announced in the London Gazette. The London Gazette is the official journal of record for the United Kingdom. Established in 1665, it is one of the world's oldest continuously published newspapers and serves as an authoritative source for official notices, proclamations, and records.

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