Object number
200005.6.11
Title
General Service Medal 1918-62 of WOII Orton
Description
General Service Medal 1918-62 with Near East and Cyprus clasps of WOII Reginald Orton. A silver medal with fthe effigy of Queen Elizabeth II (Dei Gratia). On the reverse is a standing figure of Victory in a Greek helmet and carrying a trident, bestowing palms on a winged sword. The two clasps are attached to the ribbon. The ribbon is purple with a central green band.
The Near East clasp was awarded for service in Egypt during the period 31 October to 22 December 1956. This conflict is often referred to as the Suez Crisis, or by its codename of Operation Musketeer.
The Cyprus clasp was awarded for involvement in the suppression of acts of terrorism during the guerrilla war with the EOKA organisation, who wanted Cyprus’s union with Greece (called "Enosis"). The conflict involved approximately 40,000 British troops over 4 years.
Production period
Windsor, 1910-, Greek Civil War (December 1944 - January 1945 & 1946-49)
Dimensions