1914 - 1915 Star

This star was issued to all (approximately 2,336,000) who saw service in any theatre of conflict against the central powers between 05 August 1914 and 31 December 1915, except for those who were eligible for the 1914 Star. The medal was authorised under Special Army Order 20, which was released in 1920. It was issued to British forces of all kinds, as well as imperial troops from Canada, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and India.

This medal is made of bronze and measures 1.75" wide by 2.25" top to bottom. The medal is a four pointed star, with the top point being hidden by the Imperial Crown. The obverse has a scroll in the centre with the years "1914 - 1915" on it. Surrounding the medal is a laurel wreath with the "GV" monogram at the bottom with two crossed swords (blades uppermost) in the background. The ribbon is attached via a ring on top of the crown.

The reverse is plain and flat with the recipients number, rank, name and unit. The naming is done by stamping in block capitals.

The ribbon is exactly the same as the 1914 Star. As no one could be issued both, it was not expected to cause a problem. However some recipients of the 1914 Star were unhappy, as there was no easily recognisable difference between themselves and their colleagues who fought in the later campaigns.

There were no clasps authorised.

As with the 1914 Star, recipients were entitled to wear the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.

Recipients of this medal could have been involved in campaigns in Ypres, Gallipoli, Salonika. Egypt, Africa and Mesopotamia.

The 1914-1915 Star was not awarded for service which qualified for the Africa General Service Medal or the Khedive's Sudan Medal.