History

The New Zealand War Service Medal was instituted in 1946 and awarded to personnel of the New Zealand Armed Forces, New Zealand National Military Reserve, New Zealand Merchant Navy, and the Home Guard in recognition of 28 days full-time, or 6 months part-time, home and abroad service between 1939 and 1945. Service curtailed by death or disability inflicted during active duty also qualified for the award. It is estimated that approximately 240 000 Silver Medals were issued.