History

The Africa Star was instituted by King George VI on July 8, 1943, to reward members of British and Commonwealth forces for a minimum of 1 day of service in an operational area in North Africa between June 10, 1940 (Italy’s declaration of war) and May 12, 1943. Service in Ethiopia, Somaliland, Eritrea, and Malta also qualified for the Africa Star.

The clasps “NORTH AFRICA 1942-43, “8TH ARMY,” and “1ST ARMY” were authorized for award with the Star. However, the recipient was only entitled to wear the first clasp qualified for. A Silver Arabic numeral “8” or “1” is worn on the ribbon in undress to denote the award of either the “8TH ARMY” or “1ST ARMY” clasp. A silver rosette designated the award of the “NORTH AFRICA 1942-43” clasp is worn on the ribbon of Royal Airforce recipients when the ribbon is worn alone.