Hello. My Grandfather served in the Fire Service , Epsom , Surrey , ww2. Would he have recieved a medal for his service? mum cant remember if he had. Thanks very much....rob.
The Defence Medal Description: 36mm diameter, of cupro-nickel 1, obverse shows the uncrowned head of King George VI and the legend "GEORGIVS VI D: BR: OMN: REX: F: D: IND: IMP:". The reverse depicts a crowned oak tree on a symbolic island, guarded by two lions. The words THE DEFENCE MEDAL are in exergue. Awarded to service personnel and many civilian organisations for three years service in non operational areas subjected to air attack or closely threatened. Also awarded for one years overseas service - If the overseas service area was subject to enemy attacks or closely threatened the qualifying period was reduced to six months. Many WW2 home defence and related organisations were eligible such as the Home Guard, Auxiliary Fire Service, Civil Defence, etc.
I believe he would be entitled to the British Defence Medal As far as any medal particular to to the fire service is concerned, I have no idea. My Grandma worked in the switchboard for Norwich Fire Service during WW2, all I have of hers is a Fire Service pin badge and uniform buttons.
Hi Rob, This thread may interest you http://www.ww2talk.com/forum/great-britain/20200-police-auxillary-fire-service-auxillary-ambulance-service.html