History

The South African Medal for War Service was instituted by Royal Warrant on December 29, 1946. The Silver Medal was awarded to both men and women, British subjects or not, who provided 2 or mores years of voluntary and unpaid service in any official voluntary organization in South Africa or overseas during the Second World War. Recipients of the Africa Service Medal were ineligible for the award of the South African Medal. It is estimated that approximately 17 500 Silver Medals were issued.

A Bronze protea leaf, worn on the ribbon, was awarded to recipients of the South African Medal whose service also received a mention in despatches or the King's Commendation.