Prisons Department

The Prisons Department was established in October 1911. It was renamed the South African Prisons Service (SAPS) in 1959, and the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) in 1990.

The department had three series of decorations and medals: the first from 1922 to 1968; the second from 1968 to 1980; and the third from 1980 until the DCS "civilianised" in 1996. The first series, introduced in September 1922, consisted of a single medal, which was used until February 1968.

Faithful Service Medal of the Prisons Department (1922-1968)
Originally (1922-59) called the "Prisons Good Service Medal". Awarded to chief warders, head warders, and warders, for (i) particularly gallant or distinguished service, or (ii) 18 years irreproachable service. A clasp was added if the medal was awarded for bravery. The majority of the medals were granted for long service.

Insignia: A circular silver medal displaying the national coat of arms (obverse) and a reverse inscription which varied over the years: "For Faithful Service - Voor Trouwe Dienst" (1922-32), or "For Faithful Service - Vir Troue Diens" (1932-59), or "Vir Troue Diens - For Faithful Service" (1959-68).