South African
Medal Website
South African
Honours and Awards
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Updated: May 2006
© Arthur Radburn


South African Police (1923-63)

The South African Police (SAP) was established in April 1913, and was incorporated into the new South African Police Service (SAPS) in January 1995. It had two series of decorations and medals: the first used from 1923 to 1963, and the second used from 1963 to 1995, and then continued by the SAPS until 2004.

The first series, initiated in June 1923, was very small, consisting of only two medals, each dual-purpose. During World Wars I and II, SAP members who volunteered for military service qualified for military decorations and medals.

  


Queen's Police Medal for Bravery (1937-61)
A South African variant of a British medal (which had been available to the SAP until 1933). Initially (1937-52) called the "King's Police Medal", it was awarded for conspicuous bravery in fighting crime, or saving life or property, or in the line of duty. A total of 29 awards were made to SAP members - the first recipient (1938) was Lt Col R.A. Meston.

Insignia: A circular silver medal, displaying the head of King George VI or Queen Elizabeth II (obverse), and a cloaked and helmeted watchman with a sword and shield, and the words "For Bravery - Vir Dapperheid" (reverse).


Queen's Police Medal for Distinguished Service (1937-61)
A South African variant of a British medal (which had been available to the SAP until 1933). Initially (1937-52) called the "King's Police Medal", it was awarded for specially distinguished service. Altogether, 15 awards were made.

Insignia: Same design as the medal for bravery, but with the words "Voortreflike Diens - Distinguished Service" on the reverse.


Police Good Service Medal (1923-63)
An original South African medal, awarded to "other ranks" only, for (i) distinctly gallant conduct, or (ii) 18 years exemplary service. Most of the 11 636 awards of this medal were for long service, and it takes precedence as a long service medal.

Insignia: Almost identical to the Prisons Good Service Medal: a circular silver medal, displaying the SA coat of arms (obverse) and the words "For Faithful Service - Voor Trouwe Dienst" (reverse). The Dutch was later changed to the Afrikaans "Vir Getroue Diens" and finally to "Vir Troue Diens".

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