History

This Medal was instituted via a Royal Decree, and it was conferred upon members of the Royal Air Force for long and meritorious service. The time spent in hospitals recuperating from an injury or illness caused by flight, as well as time passed in prison following an aviation operation, were counted towards the total service time. The Medal was also awarded to Pilots who had become permanently unable to fly, either due to serious injury during active service or death.

These medal may feature engraver and manufacturer marks, including “G.C. S.J. Z,” “G.C. S.J.,” and “38 MI,” or there may be no marks at all. The marks including a “Z” were minted at the Royal Mint in Rome.

The reverse medallion may be engraved with the recipient details.

The ribbon may be decorated with a gold, silver, or bronze Royal Air Force eagle.

The Gold Medal was originally awarded for 25 years of service, and it was changed to 20 years of service in 1928.