British Veterans National Defence Medal (NDM) Campaign - Started by Tony Morland
The Armed Forces have a unique place in society. Their profession requires them regularly to place their lives at risk in the service and defence of our country.
They are subject to a special legal code, are required to engage in operations anywhere and at any time as directed by the Government of the day, and forego many rights and freedoms enjoyed by civilians. No other profession faces these rigours and constraints.
Too many have served without official recognition. Examples are; Berlin Airlift, Post WW2 Peacekeepers (active service to 1955), National Service, Post Armistice Korea, Nuclear Test Veterans, Conflicts such as Cyprus with GSM Qualification of 120 days, IRA Victims on UK or European mainland, Cold War the list goes on.
Find out more at: http://www.nationaldefencemedal.webs.com/
Or sign petition at: http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/2311
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/NDM_UK
Discussions about this campaign
There is also the problem of inconsistency. For example,crew sitting one mile off shore received medals while those of us in the thick of it doing patrols received nothing 12 days ago
Alan Wilson. I was proud to serve in the British Army and thats all I need. I have been on ops and received medals. Had I not been on ops I would not be lowering myself to begging for a medal for turning up for work. Do you think that milkmen, postmen, receptionists, McDonalds workers etc should also get a medal for turning up for work? If not, why not? If you think you should get one for tipping up to work, so should they. This bleating for a medal is just embarrassing and degrades the British Soldier. 12 days ago
Spot on Danny Edwards. I served on HMS Eagle in Cyprus 1958-59. No medal recognition, demobbed in 1966 no pension recognition.Great Britain my a*** Over a month ago
Carl Bishop. I can’t say whether National Servicemen were paid well or not. However, I would assume that they were paid and that for their age and the time fairly well. Benefits of being a National Serviceman? Going out and doing something different, going to places you would not have normally, learning discipline and to fend for yourself, getting wasters off the street and good friends. Obviously for some it wasn’t their cup of tea and they couldn’t take it, but I’ll bet it taught them some values. Maybe if we had National Service these days we wouldn’t have the issues with kids on the street that we do. Over a month ago
I served from 73 to 83 and again missed out on all jubilee medels it may be a useless bit of tin to you but some of use were proud to serve and a little bit of recognition would be nice its not compulsory you don’t need to collect your if you feel like that Over a month ago
I fully support This campaign for a National Defence Medal ,
for all service personell ,especialy to recognise the service of those did not qualify for a campain medal , as in WW2 ,all service personell were awarded the War medal Over a month ago
some people where just in the right place at the wrong time for medal issues, we all joined and took the queens shilling, a little reconition of that fact would be appreciated but lets not turn into bling wearers, that said i do support the campaign,just because us oldies that served yesterday aint got the same medal reconition as the lads n lasses of today, we still done our bit at our tme. Over a month ago
You could all change the government tomorrow,.....but you won’t. So why complain? When you all signed up,.....where did it state that you would be given any type of medal in recognition of service? British forces have always been crap to serving personnel, why should they change now? Again, you could all make the government do it,.....but you won’t. Over a month ago
So all those who support this think they should get a medal/recognition for every job they did? Shouldn’t the firemen, ambulance staff and rubbish men get a medal and recognition for doing their job as well? Wasn’t the pay and benefits enough? It sickens and saddens me to see people that were once soldiers of the British Army begging for recognition/a medal for just doing a job that they were paid for along with a lot of benefits. Why do you want this medal? So people look at you in awe in the pub and buy you drinks? Over a month ago
i agree with ALL these comments,it is high time that those in government showed some guts and gave a damn about those who have served,queen Over a month ago
Yes it would be nice to be recognised for having served in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces but because the War that most of us fought was usually a war of nerves with the Warsaw Pact and no blood was spilt we are not going to be because it would cut back on the money that would normally be used for Civil Servants Perks. Having said that I would be more than proud to wear an N.D.M. as at the present when I attend a Rememberance Parade wearing my Veterans Badge it’s so small most people miss it.
Eric(Pusser)Hills R.N.1965-1975 (Confrontation ’66-’67,Operation Exit ’71-’72) Over a month ago
i totaly support the NDM all three parties irrespective of right or WRONG do not think twice about sending our men/women to fight but no support or recognition once you have done it so long as they get their glory Over a month ago
I support the campaign wholeheartedly but I would not expect help, recognition, sympathy or thanks from the self~serving money~grabbing garbage in Westminster Over a month ago
"Medals are all well and good, but more importantly what about the lost pensions for veterans pre 1975.We all know medals are richly deserved but they dont help towards the bills " Over a month ago
I served my country for 9 and half years in the army and a few tours in Northern Ireland and 30yrs as police officer mostly anti-terroist duties I think it a small reward in recognition of my contribution to my Qqeen and country and the people of this country .
Over a month ago
Not a lot to ask for the people who gave up their youthful years to serve the nation, not knowing what was in store. The government and the top brass of the military need to act swiftly to "right this wrong" , or return the commermorative medals they have been given by foreign countries.
RAF 1959 - 1970
Over a month ago
I agree with the sentiments given I served for 24 years and if I hadn’t received campaign medals I would have left with just the long service. Yet the Australian forces have to serve only two years and they automatically get a service to their country medal even though they could be a desk jockey, so why can’t the UK also recognise her forces the same way. Over a month ago
I fully support the issue of the national defence medal(free).I spentmost of my time in the RN out the far east in the 1960’s,with ashort spell in the borneo campaign.Yes!wehad no choice but to go where we where sent. Over a month ago
As the same as any ex-serviceman young or old ,we as veterans deserve and demand by right what is ours . no some laugh at us around the world ,must be the only country who do not recognise their armed forces veterans properly Over a month ago
WHY IS IT THAT NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIAN SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN RECEIVE A SERVICE MEDAL AFTER SERVING 3 YEARS IN REGULAR,TERRITORIAL AND NATIONAL SERVICE.HAVING RECEIVED ONE FOR SERVING IN THE RNZN BUT NOT MY 12 YEARS IN THE RN .IT,S A DISGRACE Over a month ago
JOIN UP Official British Armed Forces National Defence Medal Campaign .
British National Defence Medal Campaign http://nationaldefencemedal.webs.com/ Over a month ago
I served in The Royal Navy, with pride. Please give us veterans the respect and dignity we all rightly deserve. We all served this great country of ours. All we ask for is the true recognition of what we all did. Many of our exploits well never become public knowledge, but many were worthy of decorations, that we knew at the time would never be officially recognised due to political tensions around the globe. We all remain silent on those times, and will take the secrets to the grave. However a little concessions, like allowing us Armed Forces Veterans of the British Army, The Royal Air Force, The Royal Marines, and The Royal Navy is surely not too much to ask our Sovereign and the Government. It was the Government who sent us in the first place, because their diplomacy had failed. We corrected that situation in silence and in good faith. I believe its time to pay the piper Don’t You? Over a month ago
i served in the rn for 14 years mostly abroad. i have no doubt the queen would honour the uk forces but the government wants nothing to do with it . Over a month ago
I served as a conscript in R.E.M.E in Germany for 2 years as a Motor Mechanic after doing a 5 year apprenticeship. The Army I consider amongst other things got my skill on the cheap. I think it a small reward in recognition of my contribution. Over a month ago
The Queen has honoured members of the Canadian, Australian and New Zealand veterans with their equivalent of the NDM, so why are British Veterans left out? The excuse of looking like a Russian officer is very offensive! Over a month ago
My dad served in the navy in korea, is there any recognition for these sailors. He was from Scotland and was on board a ship that was hit by enemy shells, he lost good friends. It would be great to be able his great grandchildren that he was in a real war.
My dads name was william neil. I have tried to find info but to know avail.
rod neil (son) Over a month ago
All I would say is that I was, and still am, proud to have served my country but alas do not EVER attend any Remembrance Day Parades/any other similar military events, as I have nothing to show for it, and feel less of an ’ex-serviceman’ than others there who have (quite rightly) been awarded a range of medals. In these days of gross misuse of public funds for a number of useless ’pc’ projects and providing incompetent MP’s with undeserved expenses, a NDM would be a VERY small show of gratitude and would at least make all of us think we did something worthwhile rather than being tossed aside after we have served (until the next time cannon fodder is required of course then all the promises in the world will be made) Over a month ago
Am a vetrenn served in bosnia kosovo masadoina fry yugaslava and injuted in iraw av nvr bn given any meadals and wondered if u can help. My name is robert weir s ervice no 25114233 served with the Blackwatcj vould u help my address is 6poppy court scone ph26lw. A support your cause as we nvr get reconised. Plz get in touch my Email is robert-weir@hotmail.co.uk thanks sir Over a month ago
MEDAL REVIEW GOES PUBLIC FOR VIEWS
http://nationaldefencemedal.webs.com/apps/blog/entries/show/15651990-medal-review-goes-public-for-views Over a month ago
Why do you want a medal to recognise your service? You got were recognised, you got paid for your service and on top of that you got a veterans badge. You get a medal for being in a war zone, not for hanging around a barracks. If you want to be like the yanks who get a medal for tipping up for basic training and brushing their teeth, then you should have joined the yank military. Over a month ago
I fully support this issue far to many people who have served their country have been ignored by the while MPs sit in Parliament safe and well while drawing their £60,000 a year Over a month ago
I served with Her Majesties Royal Marines on Christmas Island I have also signed the petition for the Queens Diamond Jubilee medal and I say it should be awarde to those who served on Christmas Island without protective clothing if this is not serving your country what is Roddie MacRae former R.M. Over a month ago
Wheres ma medals??? Bn years now also was injured in iraq n they have the hard neck 2 no even medicaly discharce me. Y aint a getn reconised.. A even saved the company OC plus another officer n 4 others getn injured duren saven there lifes.. Where is the justice.. Answer plz am tired of this
Over a month ago
Fully support this issue I am a vet of Cyprus, Aden, Radfan and holder of the BEM The issue of this medal will show "We rember and reconise them" more importantly so does the country they served Over a month ago
Well said Glen...................................
http://nationaldefencemedal.webs.com/apps/blog/entries/show/15651990-medal-review-goes-public-for-views Over a month ago
I fully support the issue of this medal to all past members of HM Forces including the very brave Gurkah soldiers who fought for this country and have been ignored and passed over in favour of immigrants who have done nothing in the upkeep of the UK. the issue of this medal to ex forces will show that the Country recognises people who have given all they can to preserve the peace. Over a month ago
A friend once told me of his observation when it comes to the wearing of Medals:-
If you understand something about medals then look to see whether the person is wearing campaign medals with bars, that will tell you that they are worthy.
Having said that, after being awarded a DCM it took me 22 years to be awarded my LS Over a month ago
Medal review goes public . Find out more ....................................... http://nationaldefencemedal.webs.com/apps/blog/entries/show/15651990-medal-review-goes-public-for-views Over a month ago
Fully support the award of the Defence Service Medal I served in the RN from 1969/1981 and then moved to NZ to continue my service in the RNZN where I continue to serve as of today, I retire later this year. We in the NZDF recently were awarded DSM, the award has been well received by serving and ex serving members of our Defence Force. Wish you well for the award of a DSM for all UK serving and ex service members of the Armed Forces. Over a month ago
Everyone who was called up or volunteered to serve in any branch of the armed services during any period of the reign of HM Queen Elizabeth II, should, as Prince Charles during the Diamond Jubille celebration put it “..have the medal’s to prove it”, he said it not me. What is good enough for Prince Charles is good enough for all of those serving members now before a lot more of them go home to glory with nothing but their memories and it does not require a special medal review to decide it. Over a month ago
Medal review goes public . Find out more ....................................... http://nationaldefencemedal.webs.com/apps/blog/entries/show/15651990-medal-review-goes-public-for-views Over a month ago
Only posted half my comment below, But i went on to serve 18 months in BAOR ..heard of quite a few deaths on NATO exercises including the Ferret incident, poor buggers, plus two men carbon monoxide poisoned bedded down near a generator Over a month ago
I among many other National Service men, served the extra six months imposed to make up for the manpower shortage in 1960s in BAOR during a critical time in the Cold War, "Bay of Pigs" comes to mind, nobody asked us we were told!! We were fully trained infantrymen ready to do our duty, NS or Regular...I am a Londoner and went straight to N/Ireland for 3 months basic training from there to Libya, 9 months without leave, Over a month ago
I think , Bishop Carl , even former service men and women can easily fall into the trap of forgetting those who have gone before them and think they are the only ones who have done a bit and make incorrect assumptions based on lazy or non investigation . Over a month ago
just to for the record taff national servicemen did not get paid the rate for the job. or have any choice to as to serve or not. WE were ordered to report for duty, or have a visit from the R M P. Over a month ago
This campaign for a British National Defence medal is not "JUST FOR SERVING and GETTING PAID FOR IT." Try reading the information and the case presented by The National Defence Medal Campaign team before ridiculing your own service and the service of others . http://nationaldefencemedal.webs.com/ Over a month ago
I do not support this campaign. National Defence Medal, for what.? Just serving and getting paid for it. I did 5 Op Banner tours in the 70’s, got GSM. Where is it, stiill in it’s box never made up. I don’t need another medal to gather dust. I am just proud to have served my country. Over a month ago
I have posted my support before, but there is thousands of people out there who served in the armed forces who don’t know about this campaign. I think we should get the media on our side they have done wonders for other campaigns. (Just a thought.) Over a month ago
Morning Troops . I have posted a couple of messages on here , As along with others served in the Cold War in and around Berlin in the 60s for 5 years . Yes we do all know that the other NATO countries got a Cold War medal bus us a kick up the back side . How many armed forces troops were killed or serious injured during exercises and crash outs and so on. As i wrote in a earlier message on one BAOR exercise we had a mate killed and another badly injured when his ferret overturned ,he was discharged from the army .And also on the exercise a pilot and his observer in there chopper came down and crashed both killed . It was not only a Cold War but what was hidden away was that we were really a peace keeping force as in places like Cyprus. This Goverment also the past just show us the door after we do our time in the armed forces , Yes you do feel you have been left out and they know it . We don’t ask for much just the Queens Golden Jubilee Medal . How can we give Tony more surrport . Ex Royal Scots Grey . Alec Over a month ago
ray, young. hi, i served 3yrs 2in egypt i bicester oxon. i did not get a thankyou for dodging cheese wire or hiddin shells between t.e.c. and portsaid,but then the stella took your mind of it. nothing to show my grand kids.cheers. Over a month ago
I am in full support of this medal, I feel that no service man or woman should ever be made to feel like a second class citizen on Rememberance Sunday ever again. They should be able to hold their heads up high and march with the pride and respect that they deserve and not with a piss pot badge. I hold a GSM and I think its the least this country should do for all those past, present and future brave people who serve and have served our country. I think its time the Armed Forces (Family) thats all of us, RN/ARMY/RAF,back this,as its the one thing that we have all got in common. Make this a great Remberence Sunday and look after each other.
I salute you all. Over a month ago
I AM IN FULL SUPPORT OF THIS CAMPAIGN AND FEEL ALL MEMBERS AND FORMER MEMBERS H.M. ARMED FORCES SHOULD BE AWARDED A NATIONAL DEFENCE MEDAL EX R.C.T 8 YEARS SERVICE. Over a month ago
I have signed the Government petition for this and the Diamond Jubilee Medal, I feel there should be recognition to all servicemen since WW2 a lot of us ended up in parts of the world where our brothers at arms were being killed and if you were not there long enough there was no recognition, I walked the streets of Aden as a 16 and a half year old sailor and did security duties ashore when we were duty ship in Harbour. I always wondered how Mr Wilson would have explained this if me or dozens like me had been killed at such a tender age, I was back to the "Barren Rocks" in 67 for our swan song when I was on my second ship but I was 18 by then. Later on I spent 2 and a half years on Polaris at the height of the Cold War. Anyway Gongs are cheap to manufacture but received with a lot of pride by the recipient so be like other countries in NATO (who have been in less confrontations since WW2) and dish out to those who served. Cheers Pony RN 64-72 Over a month ago
PM announces independent medals review
http://nationaldefencemedal.webs.com/apps/blog/entries/show/14585155-pm-announces-independent-medals-review Over a month ago
http://nationaldefencemedal.webs.com/apps/blog/entries/show/14587125-published-terms-of-reference
Military Medals Review – Terms of Reference
Over a month ago
That is one of the reasons why your service needs to be recognised Tony and that is defending peace during your service and being ready to fight for it .
Over a month ago
We were not selfish in the 50s and 60s when we joined up to serve our country, we were a different breed, our values were not to grab all you can get for nothing, unlike today.
I can only say that serving my country for 12 years was reward enough,(1955/1968) and greed for something for nothing never came into the picture.
Now we are sending our forces to lands so far away to protect and feed the greed of the world we live in today.
We have become greedy, and our Girls and Boys are fighting a force that bares nothing like my service during the 50sand 60s
Bring them home D C and give them the medals.My service of 12 years deserves only my memories of being free from World War., AND HAVING ENJOYED THE EXPERIANCE.
Ex HMS Bulwark RO8................... Over a month ago
What I do noy understand regarding our MP’s is why they do not take any notice of what we have to say to them, we are the peaple who vote them in to power and they are there to represent us so its about time they start listening to the uk population and be on our side. Des. Over a month ago
Desmond,,, May I suggest that you visit the National Defence Medal Campaign web site where you will be able to read about all that has gone before, Over a month ago
I did not know of this campaign un till now but I have writen a letter to David Cameron the PM in which I said to him that all millitary servicemen past present all deserve to be honoured for putting thier lives at risk by serving in the armed forces,or even the civil services (such as Policemen, firemen etc) should be awarded a medal for this.
He replied to me saying that he had passed my letter to the Home Office and The Depatment of Defence as he felt that they should deal with this issue.
As yet I hhave heard nothing from them and am still keeping my fingers crossed. I am in full support of this campaign. I served in the Royal Navy and The Surrey Police. Des Lamble. Over a month ago
Hi Kev ,And what a put on here is all true , We will never get to know the number who lost there lives and maimed during training excises since 1945 in the Cold War . Over a month ago
Here’s one supporter who didn’t get his comments in support of the campaign published . Can somebody explain why? no expletives,all civil language WHY ?? Over a month ago
Spot on Mr Alum and it depended on the unit or individuals who were caught in the so called peaceful Cold War/Terrorism Insurgency War as some British Veterans who are against the British Defence Medal suggest. Maybe they should ask the Submarines who served in the Middle East, Cuban Missile Crisis etc while playing cat and mouse with the Soviets. Over a month ago
Cyprus 55-56,To my knowledge no naval ships were awarded the NGSM due to the rule of 120 days continuous time on patrol Suez Canal Zone,British Forces did not leave until 1956 yet the cut off for GSM?NGSM was 1954 Malaya,1960,the GSM/NGSM was cut off in Singapore etc early in 1960,one mile away across the Causeway it contiued on,Army and RAF had to do 24 or 48 hours in Country,Navy on duty up country as I was got nothing. That,s just my experience,we did get the NGSM for Operation Musketeer but thos of us ashore did not merit a Campaign medal. The Award Committee should be sacked asap as should Cameron and Co,the Monarch should head a new Award Committee,our Oath was to Queen and Country and the Head of the Spear has a very long logistic trail to keep it sharp,so Britain ,pay up,you owe the Armed Forces everything you have now,everything you have ever had everything you will ever have,we made guaranteed that Tony Weekes-ex RN MN Army Reserve Over a month ago
I served for 9 years from mid 60s six of them in germany . On one exercise training for the Cold War defence you could say .We had our bridge layer commander killed and also a AAC small heli came down and both pilot and observer were killed . Now how many many more of this happened while being in the Cold War , And not getting any recognition , The Commander was a pal off mine Cpl George Moffat Royal Scots Greys , He also served in Aden in 1963/64 they did not get a medal there also . Over a month ago
Some people have commented they’d prefer not to receive an NDM. It should be said that as with any medals for veterans only those who apply to the medal office would receive one. So nobody should feel pressured into wearing and NDM if they’d prefer not to.
A word on cost, it has been priced at less that £5 per unit, it would have zero impact on any operational equipment as the budgets are completely separate. Above that there has also been a proposal tabled to make the project cost neutral.
It only takes a little thinking outside the box to overcome any hurdles that stands in the way of giving a small token of official gratitude to the men and women who have stepped up to the mark in defence of our Nation.
Over a month ago
Supporting the Armed Forces, either serving or Ex-Service, should be a priority, and such a medal would serve to highlight the sacrifices made by service personnel.Like the Union Flag which now cannot be flown outside a military base, in some cases, I believe support for our force is seen as just not "PC" enough. Over a month ago
I have always felt that recognition of service was more apropriate to a veterans medal rather than to a veterans badge-bad craic but that is what the government felt was suitable and there we have it. I would like to see as monies for equipment etc in support of our current Armed Forces is in very short supply i.e. non existant it seems, my solution to gain a very sizeable amount of £s would be to have the Queens Silver, Gold and Jubilee medals made available BY THE MOD to ALL ex-serving military personnel at a cost of £100 to be worn on the LEFT of a blazer would rake in vast amounts of much needed financial support and do away with commerative type medals.Just a thought. Over a month ago
What I find hard to understand is why is their no POW/IED:OED/Combat Medal as well. Its time those brave men and women can show the public what they been through and the British population should campaign their local MPs and write to PM /Queen Over a month ago
I’m coming in a bit late I know - I signed up in 1959 (RN) and served 9 years. I was happy to be employed, saw the world for free and ended up in Australia. I now have asbestos on the lungs (probably from HMS Intrepid and HMS Tiger.) The MOD refuses to accept I contracted asbestosis from anything related to them. Am I expecting a medal - no way am I. A simple apology for my condition would suffice. Over a month ago
Gentlemen (and Ladies). Walter B and Steven H are both entitled to their views. Reading the scroll sold on this very site we all signed up and “endured hardship, faced danger and by the path of duty and self sacrifice have allowed others to live in freedom”. Now taking that sentence further I believe that by our service we protected the freedom of individuals to the right of free speech. I do not agree with some of the things written below but I value my service to allow such freedom (to express a view). I already have a ‘Gong’ for active service, do not agree with sold Bling and firmly believe that all those individuals who signed up and gave exemplary service should have a visible ‘reward’ for the time given to the Crown. The logical ‘reward’ would be a service medal (and not the badge given at present). This campaign in my view will be bogged down forever by the MOD but at the very least it will I hope raise awareness of the people still serving within the very community they serve. Now if you cannot agree on anything else I would hope you (both) agree that is something worthwhile.
Ref Peter ....... That is its purpose ....How observant . But that does not exclude those who have the right to disagree . But to disagree with a smear campaign is hardly constructive to your cause , as it demonstrates your lack of arguments against . You must remember the name calling originated with the argument against , in the sense that the tactic of a broad smearing campaign was the tactic used .
As for time served individual ....Well come on , there are many time served individuals who support an NDM ....I would say more than those who do not .
You see you are negating the hard work and service of the majority for the minority in your use of those who shied away , for whatever reason , their duties .
The NDM campaign is not supportive of bling . To attempt to associate the campaign with such a thing is to demonstrate you lack of understanding in this matter . Over a month ago
You and me against the world, Walter. I’ve followed a similar discussion on LinkedIn where many of the participants were against such a medal (and, incidentally, the issue of the DJM to retirees). It’s clear that this forum will have a majority in favour of a medal for that is its purpose. It’s disappointing that some contributors resort to name-calling or to childish accusations because a time served individual dared speak against the majority.
Walter made the point that there will have been many who spent their time in barracks and spend their money on beer at the weekend. There will also be those who manipulated the welfare and the medical systems to avoid anything that might seem like hard work. I know this because peers of mine got ’crash drafted’ to ships because someone got ’inboard back’ or whose wife ’couldn’t handle the kids’. It is these people who render such a medal worthless. I am sure that many of the contributors will know someone who worked the system and I’d like to ask whether or not such individuals who abused the system should be entitled.
I also disapprove of the Mil Bling thats readily available but that can’t be worn at any official function. These type of things do nothing but look pretty and line the pockets of the shareholders with a payoff going to the RBL. Over a month ago
With ANZAC DAY coming up next month and all the proud Veterans attending the day to remember their fallen comrades and attending the ANZAC March to reminds us of the current Coalition servicemen and women who protect our freedom of speech and liberty from those who would rather see terrorism as their tool of rule.
National Servicemen in Australia Over a month ago
I would say the medals worth having are the ones that the British Government request Her Majesty to sanction . And that is what the NDM is , recognition for the service of past and present members of Her Majestys armed forces for services rendered in the defence of Britain and Her interests .
It is about time the British Government , which is elected by the populace of Britain and should listen to them , just like the Australian and New Zealand Governments , request to Her Majesty the instigation of a British National Defence Medal for all those that have served their initial engagement period .
I am also happy to have been a soldier who was in touch with his emotions , as this enabled me to have empathy and compassion with those I came into contact with . Winning hearts and minds .
I joined as a human being and not a mindless numb machine .
Well said Tony ............ Over a month ago
General Sir David Richards said "I know that our Armed Forces will be delighted they will be awarded a ’Diamond Jubilee Medal’, both to celebrate the Queen’s reign and in recognition of the enduring sacrifice our personnel make for our country. They represent the very best of Britain, selflessly defending our nation and its interests, both at home and abroad, and this announcement of a Diamond Jubilee Medal for our Armed Forces gives us all the opportunity to celebrate both the Queen’s service to the country over the last 60 years and the service of our Armed Forces in her name."
The defence minister at the time Liam Fox said "This medal recognises the important and difficult job our Armed Forces have carried out defending our nation and its interests, both at home and abroad, and it is a fitting tribute to their dedication and professionalism."
One must therfore ask, why do these same qualities not warrant recognition for those who did not happen to be serving on 06/02/2012, but nevertheless still did their duty, whatever it was they were called upon to do.
Now is not a time for mud slinging but to dwell on the positive aspects of the military ethos, a botherhood built on mutual respect and common belief that this country is worth defending. Over a month ago
Yes ...Ok I should have not called Walter those naughty names . But , yes the famous but word , Walter should not be demeaning the service of many who have served since 1945 . Many lost their lives during the cold war and IRA activities in Europe and mainland Britain . Recruits still in training were executed in British railway stations , soldiers on ceremonial duties in London were blown apart along with their horses , soldiers and their families were left in pieces on the motorways of Britain . No doubt many more could be added . So Walter and your one and only supporter ??????? , who states he stands with you , I strongly object to the smear of demeaning the concept of medals , being a potential purchaser of bling and most importantly the smear and outright blatant deliberate charge of being somebody who just lived in barracks and spent my pay down town every week . NOW THOSE ACCUSATIONS AND ELEPHANT HURLING ARE FAR WORSE THAN BEING CALLED A NAME . Over a month ago
FULLY SUPPORT THE CAMPAIGN BUT AS IT TOOK 50YEARS! YES 50 TO GET A GSM FOR ACTIVE SERVICE IN EGYPT I EXPECT THIS GOVERNMENT AND SUCCESSIVE ONE WILL WAIT UNTIL RECIPIENTS WILL FIT INT0 A TELEPHONE BOX. BRIAN MORSLEY Over a month ago
Walter, I stand with you. I note that in your language, you don’t use the word ’prick’ nor resort to personal abuse.
’spent hours and hours?’ ’short notice standby?’ Some of us spent weeks and weeks up against the Russians, and often a lot closer than anyone can imagine.
’A few months in Gatow?’
This ’wet behind the ears’ Cold War warrior (and Iraq) is fully aware of the implications of that period in history. Over a month ago
British governments throughout the ages, of all political parties, have had little regard for military service. Unless deeds have been done in battle or arbitrary time spent what was classed as overseas. What is never recognised is satisfactory military service completed; whatever was asked at the time. A time honoured phrase; ’They also serve who stand and wait’, counts for little. Over a month ago
Walter Beaney .....Your a prick . You obviously are not the person you claim to be as a real leader of men would not have used the language and tone used . And you obviously are not a leader of men because you disrespect the uniform and the rank you claim you had . If I had of been in your unit I would have had your cards marked . You are a disgrace .....yes , a disgrace . Your education is obviously lacking and your empathy with your soldiers , if you really did serve , was probably non existent . You also would not have gained any respect from your men apart from the fact that you could threaten to put them on a charge .
The way I see respect is if you have to use your rank to gain respect then you are an ass , if you got respect because you lead from the front then you are a leader ....YOU ARE AN ASS . Over a month ago
How pathetic, grown men asking for a medal for just having served. It demeans the whole concept of medals. If you actually served in a combat zone or did the time, you will already have the medals (proper ones). If you are really that desperate for a medal go buy one of those silly self awards and wear that, after all living in a barracks and spending your pay down town every week hardly qualifies as hard service. W.Beaney ex SSM. Over a month ago
Yes I also agree that all servicemen and women ex or serving should get this medal ,and this should also include our fellow gurkhas passed and present who have served as our comrades in arms. Over a month ago
Certainly there should be a "Cold War" medal. Some of us spent hours and hours way out over the sea looking for Sov submarines or surface ships. Others were on short stand-by to intercept Sov aircraft encroaching our air-space. Others were at the "sharp end" in Germany. Why no medal? Over a month ago
I served in Korea 1956/57 on the 38th Parallel but we got no credit for it even though we were only expected to last for 12/24 Hrs while the Yanks got thier act to-gether if the North Koreans attacked again so a little recognition would go a long way Over a month ago
I also think that all veterans should get this medal, I served for several months at Gatow (Berlin) in the 50s and with the Russians just a few hundred yds away over the airstrip it was just like being in the front line.
John Hunter Ex RAF Regiment. Over a month ago
I think there are some on here who are using arguments against an NDM that have been demonstrated to be floored and lacking in substance due to not taking into account all of the factors as to why an NDM is the correct request by HM Government to her Majesty for all those that have served in the British armed forces and having completed there contracted enlistment period . As for medals just for service .....Well medals just for service , as some so put it , are issued now . So that is not a justifiable and demonstratable defence for not instigating a British National Defence medal . For those who are still wet behind the ears the cold war lasted from 1945-1990 and involved one side of the planet potentially being obliterated by the other . If it was not for those British men and women who stood ready to defend this country at this time you would now be speaking Russian ......Get it yet ? Over a month ago
You can get a armed forces veterans lapel badge from here.
http://www.veterans-uk.info/vets_badge/vets_badge.htm
I am proud of mine but medals are given to those who have earned them getting one for just serving would devalue those earned so not sure i agree with it. I would hate to see this country handing out medals like they do in America where they get a medal for getting out of bed in the morning. Over a month ago
I think if you have done anything in your career that was medal worthy you would of been issued a medal for it, this is just going to be ignored by people with real medals as they know it’s worth. And it’ll be treasured by war dodgers and only admired by those that don’t realise it’s just a cornflakes medal! Over a month ago
Hello from NZ. Our NZ Govt have decided to award the NZ Defence Services Medal. Who qualify? All Territorials who have completed their territorial contract. All service personnel who completed their Compulsory Military Training (CMT) and who completed their NZ National Service. ( Please note here in NZ both these categories are different from the UK) and finally to all regular services personnel who completed 3 years or more of regular service. 160,000 medals issued over five years! I know its only a ’medal’ but the response shown by those ’who had thought they were forgotten’ is worth every doller spent. Go for it you guys and girls - you all deserve it. My backgound briefly - RAF 12 yrs RNZAF 21 yrs. Malaya. Malaysia, Borneo and Vietnam. " Null Illegitimate Corbourundum!"
Tom Palmer ( Bsking in the NZ Summer!!) Over a month ago
Iam going to approach my MP Sir Menzie Campbell to see if he can help us to get the medal which i must stress is deserved by all services who served Queen and Country. Over a month ago
Richard Reading
Compulsory National Service, served in Cyprus, and just caught the last three months of active service against enosis, but NOT long enough to get the G,S.M. Some recognition as this N.D.M. would make us feel as though Britian has recognised us. Over a month ago
I had to do national service, It was compulsory, The cold war was real, The government wanted my service for two years and have given me nothing for it. Over a month ago
Another poster mentioned the Vetrans Badge which was ISSED to my uncle. He spent WWII in a reserved occupation, coal miner, and earned enough during the war to buy his own house after the war - cash. My father served throughout the war (including North Africa) and was invalided. He had to fight for housing when he returned to civvy street. I enquired about the Vetrans Badge and was told that I could apply and my application would be "considered". Having served 30 in the Royal Air Force (Falklands Gulf War included) I didn’t bother. Everyone who has served in the forces deserves recognition and I support the idea of the (Rankless) NDM. But, lets remember the old saying,"Don’t hold your breath." Over a month ago
This is a medal for a medal’s sake. It basically entitles anyone who got through basic training to a medal. Even those who spent their career avoiding drafts and postings with ’inboard’ back’ or developed a welfare problem at strategic moments would receive it. One must wonder what is the point of such a medal. It would only ever be worn at parades so one’s peers know that one has served,. and observers will assume that because one is parading with others, then one has served in the military. The medal being worn by everyone takes away any value (not monetary) it might have.
32 yrs served, 3 medals LSGC, GJM and Iraq Medal - and I’m happy with that Over a month ago
I have very recently written to the Rt Hon Philip Hammond MP with regards to this very subject. As I work in the Prison Service I have also asked my colleagues all over the country to join in and sign up to this campaign. If you would like to read the response to my letter please contact me.
Over a month ago
Not for those who backed out of recruit training etc. Qualifying period 2 years years minimum (National Service stint)or medical discharge due to service injury. Not the RBL one days pay to qualify Over a month ago
It is no good just moaning to each other, we are all on the same side, this needs more publicity and some very heavy top end marketing, at the moment it is only us vets who know about this, send this link to your MP, etc etc. Over a month ago
We can make little difference, what we need is any MP who has served in the armed forces to stand up and be heard and any that object who have not served should be named and shamed. Over a month ago
I served on HMS Falmouth during the Falklands conflict taking over duties as west indies guard ship so sadly missed the conflict,we did however serve down there the year after for around 5 months in 83,we all wouldnt of minded some recognition of the graft we put in.
Over a month ago
AS I JOINED THR SEA CADETS IN AT 14YRS-1942 THEN THE HOME GUARD-AT 16YRS 1944 AS A MESSENGER I DID FIRE A LEE-ENFIELD RIFLE AT BISLEY,THEN CALLED UP IN THE RAF IN MARCH 1946-TO 1948, GUESS THREE QUEENS UNIFORMS, AND NO MEDALS. Over a month ago
The Queen is the fount of all honour and head of the Armed Forces. She has honoured Austalia and NZ with a medal. Only MoD parsimony, civil servants and MPs who have never served yet alone volunteered are trying to block this campaign. They are yet again reduced to well deserved obloquy. RM Over a month ago
I served in the Royal Army Medical Corps from November 1956 - got to Suez then involved with Hungarian revolution back to Aldershot then finished up in SHAPE, Paris - what a posting. I finished my service career in March 1965. I did campaign to get the service pension after 9 years 88 days as our pay was less the pension contribution. Only those doing the 22 years got the pension. Over a month ago
The Goverment should be Ashamed That this campaign has come this far that we shoud fight for recognition, The D.M. should be given with out question to all who served ther Country. Over a month ago
what can you expet from government who takes money from serving forces but are willing to give themselves a medal for sitting on their backsides makeing daily cock ups Over a month ago
The rest of my comment:
The British Monarchy and Commonwealth Governments should back the British Servicemen and Women in getting the National Defence Medal! British Service personnel saw action during the Cold War and many never came back! God Bless them. Also Prince Harry Over a month ago
I fully support this campaign, I served in the RAF 82-92 and feel ashamed that the UK Government will not do the honourable thing. I live in Australia now and they proudly wear their ADM after 4 years service. Over a month ago
I served during Falklands campaign but didnt qualify, I was also in the services during the Silver jubilee, didnt qualify, I have worked in the prison servive for 16 years including the goldenjubille, didnt qualify. Now with privitisation I probably wont qualify for the Imperial service medal despite giving 26 years of service to the state..not right really is it. My dad RIP also served for 3 years in the Malaya campaign someone stole his GSM but he does not qualify for the medal recently awarded by the malayan govt Come on Gov get it right everyone who serves during this period deserves recognition. Over a month ago
Go for it too many service personnel have served in trouble spots around the world with no recgnition and about time they were recognised. Over a month ago
All servicemen/women no doubt would be proud to wear a National Defence Medal as a form of recognition. After 21 years service in the RAF there was no knowing that I and many others had ever served at all. Also in those days the services were looked on as 2nd class citizens to a large degree.
Bob Vigar Over a month ago
The majority of service personel who served since the 2nd world war either in national service and those who volunteered during the sixties/seventies were forgotten once they had finished their service very little help was on hand to help in reajusting to civi life which led to many falling by the wayside,I was lucky I learned a trade while serving but I still found it difficult to find housing for my family in my case having to write to the then prime minister H.Wilson to help in the matter was a long hard slog but with a lot of bloody mindedness I eventualy won,as for my father in law after serving thirty years in the service he struggled and this I am sure helped to kill him through ongoing ill health since leaving the service.
Thank god now our lads are looked after but there is still a lot that our Government should be doing to make their life better,aftercare in my opinion is very important.
Our Lads and Lassies should never be forgotten for their sacrifices they have given to keep our Country and its People Safe. Over a month ago
George Barklem. I did National Service from 1959 - 1961, most of this was served in Kenya. In 1961 the regiment was rushed to Kuwait, when there was trouble with Iraq. I feel that all service men Over a month ago
Served NS 2years six months in Germany extra time re Berlin crisis cold war and i support this and look forward to getting the NDM if the government upholds this request by those who deserve it. Over a month ago
John Drury: I also served my Queen and country for almost 14 years from 1952, mainly in the Middle East and Far East, and saw civilians who worked for British army getting Coronation Medals , but not us at the "sharp end" also no Jubilee medals (went to civilians) Now the government won’t recognize our loyal service with a measly NDM - shame on this government. Maybe it is time our great friend to the forces stepped in - I refer to His Higness, Prince Phillip, a service man through and through
Over a month ago
I have to wonder if the Armed Forces are forgotten once they take the uniform off, wonder is not the word is it, of course we are forgotten. GSM’s, as has already been mentioned (Cyprus) have a time period, Navy Patrols of approx 30 days meant that we were not entitled to the GSM for that one as for this NDM idea, I think it’s brilliant, it would cover all (Cod Wars, etc) but I don’t I’ll hold my breath waiting for it. Over a month ago
I can not see why the government will not give the veterans the NDM we have done our bit to help keep our great country free and safe from the acts of terror we have done our time in the so called forgotten wars seems they can not remember what happened yesterday . I was in the army and served in Aden and Northern Ireland even then it took about two years to give the GSM .We earn it we should get it thanks to all of us see youlads Allan Over a month ago
All passed and present members of HMF deserve every bit of recognition they can get but due to penny pinching and moronic poletitions you can bet they will not get the medals they earned the hard way! Good luck to us ALL!!!! Over a month ago
Gil Harrison (RAF) Three years ago I designed a Medal with a distictive Ribbon for each service, for all who had served irespective of time and place, it was backed by my Local MP. Many have served long periods without any reconition what so ever. It was to indicate the wearer had served his country in the HMF. It was rejected by the MOD. I support this Campaign and hope it is succesfull. Over a month ago
I served in the Royal Navy and its reserve for 29 years , I got a LSGC ......I wear it with pride on Remembrance day etc ,,,I know many people who did loyal service and have no medal ,,,,,,They feel ashamed and do not attend official events as they feel left out THE NDM is a must !!!!!! Over a month ago
Medals are not for the glory of the wearer, but worn in memory of those who served and will never wear their own. Please, don’t hide them away, wear them on Veterans Day and Remembrance Sunday, at a ceremony near you. We will always remember them. Over a month ago
Strange that we have to ask for this medal. It seems that everyone else is entitled to recognition for the service they perform - but the Armed Forces are just forgotten about. I missed out on a Silver Jubilee medal - as I didn’t join till late in 77. Missed out on a Golden Jubilee medal - as I had already left the Forces. Won’t qualify for a Diamond Jubilee medal - now a civilian, but still working for the greater good. Surely Its not too much to ask for a little bit of appreciation from the Government of the country I gave 22 years of my working life to! Over a month ago
Even if a medal is cleared for issue you may not get one. I had to send my own military service details to records as they had no record of my service anywhere before ten years previousl to my application for the Accumulated Campaign Medal, and that was after thirty years in the Army, and still in the service. The Silver Jubilee medal was given to those who controlled the issue of it and not to those with long service in Her Majesty’s forces. Why not ask ex-servicemen and women if they would pay for the new Jubilee medals themselves, I am sure that they would have more than sufficient orders to make it viable, unless, of course, they have lost all of the records when ’upgrading to computers’ Over a month ago
I see Will Washington’s point about non recognitio. I spent 25 years in the RAF got a GSM for Cyprus in the 50’s and an LSGM for 18 years (its 15 now). I did get the Pingat Jasa Malaysia this year (a long wait) but it is just in the draw with the other 2. I was in the cold war (nothing) SEATO in Thailand (nothing) and Muharraq 1969/70 (nothing). I don’t like parades and that is the only time they would come out. I prefer to have silent thoughts, but some would march proudly with what they have earned and they should get recognition for service abroad. Over a month ago
Why is it that we have to go ’cap in hand’ every time to literally ’beg’ for some sort of recognition for our contribution to the welfare of our country. We don’t live for ever so why we are still feebly kicking up our heels isn’t it morally right and proper that we should be the recipients of such an award? Over a month ago
Medals should be awarded to all British forces on the same principle as the American forces,if you leave your homeland no matter where you go,whether it is Germany N Ireland or any other country,plus all medals served up at our Queens celebrations whatever they are ,the silver and diamond jubilee are examples. Over a month ago
all power to those that support this issue. It is time the government recognised the service that serving and veteran servicemen gave to this country and not to forget them after they have done their bit for the country. Over a month ago
everyone should go into banking, at least if you fail you get a huge payoff and maybe a knighthood or even be a lord, come to think of it, be an MP, then you can tell others that join up, ( most of them join up to get away from the s---t life in civvy street )go and die for this country . Over a month ago
to recognise the service of all members of HM Forces by presentt and future politicians could show us they may have some guts after all Over a month ago
i fully support all the issues mentioned i spent 22 yrs doing whatever the govmnt wanted or demanded that i do spent times out with the rafg harrier force but what really got up my nose was non recognition for tramping around as ps on changi with my trusty 303 over my shoulder and 10 rounds of ammo in a buttoned down pocket of my kd ( never could of got them out in an emergency in time) waiting for mr sukarno to sink britains aircraft carrier (singapore) and not eligible for this new malayan medal or even a gsm as according to mod confrontation was over by aug 65 (my arrrival date) have no idea then where the casevac aircraft were coming from always thought it was borneo shows how wrong you can be eh !!best of for the campaign Over a month ago
Please be absolutely in no doubt that any petition that has to be approved by the M.O.D (Masters OF Deception) will FAIL! They have NO INTEREST in any serving or Ex service personnel. They only exist to further their own careers and retire on a bigger pension that any serviceman could ever achieve. A minuscule number of these overpaid sycophants have actually SERVED their country under Queen’s Regulations and borne arms in support of this great land of ours. They sit in judgement over all aspects of Service requirements and care not a jot about anyone!!!!! Rant over, best of luck with a futile petition! Disillusioned of GREAT Britain. Over a month ago
Like all government whilst in opposition say how poorly the troops are treated and how we deserve better when they get in a position to issue just a small token of thanks forget it, every person who signs up offers to put their life on the line the NDM should be our right, we should not need to ask and beg for the respect owed to us
ex ACC Over a month ago
Nobby Clarke I agree with all the comments made unfortunately we have to deal with a group of greedy,selfish,M.P.’swho are only interested in screwing the public good luck to Tony, Over a month ago
I served 13 yrs in RAF and 8 yrs with RAEME in Australian Reserves. I was on Mount Kent in Falklands. I have received the ADM ( Australian Defence Medal )so i fully support the NDM though BDM for British DM would be better. All the Best of British. Over a month ago
I support the campaign for the NDM wholeheartedly, not everyone who gave a lot of years to there respective service got the chance to earn a campaign award Bill McEwan Over a month ago
I fully agree that our former service should be recognised.Many cold war operations went unnoticed,some recognition by the government for those services would be the "Decent"thing to do. Over a month ago
I saw active service in th Secret War in the Gulf in 1971, along with a few others but no recognition has ever been given. The Sultan of Oman could, at least said something, it was his troups we were helping. Over a month ago
After Trade training at Compton Basset, as a Wireless Op, I was initially posted to Cyprus at the time of the Eoka troubles. I was quite chuffed as, being a marksman I believed I was due another 7s6d per week. I would also have been going abroad for the first time (something I didn’t do until 1981!). Unfortunately I’d had a ’mysterious’ illness that put me in Sick Quarters for two weeks whilst at Compton. Therefore it was decided that this might make me particularly prone top prickly heat so I was posted to HQ(u)BC, Naphill. I would willingly have gone. (I was told that I was initially posted to Cyprus as I had been the second best shot in my Squadron at Hednesford). I have often felt cheated that I never went. I fully support your campaign. Ian C Over a month ago
I could never understand why this wasn’t the norm, we were always expected to do what we were told and we always did, maybe we some times moaned, but we did it to the best and sometimes to our better ability. I stand fully behind this NDM campaign. Over a month ago
You have my full support, it is about time Government paid it’s due to our service men and women whpo over the years sacrificed home, family and in too many cases their lives. This is little compensation, but recognition does go a long way. The government is our representative, reflecting our thoughts wants and needs, time they listened. Over a month ago
Keith Cooke If they can do it for the Australian and Kiwi vets why not for the brits and it should be worn on the left as a recognised medal. Over a month ago
I fully agree that our former service should be recognised. I was in the RN from 1957 to 1967 and served in the Far East and West Indies. The Malasian Government recognised my service - but NOT my own country!! Over a month ago
Thanks for your service! We are all proud of the British Servicemen and Women today and ex-servicemen and women who stood to defend freedom of speech. Also the Australia Servicemen and Women which has given its National Service personnel respect and honor with a Defence Medal . Its time for the British Government did the same.
Lest We Forget Over a month ago
Recognition long overdue for so many, don’t expect our Government to do the "decent" thing, it’s easier to do nothing.
Graveside
Some soldiers died today,
Though no one gave a care.
For they were Cold War warriors,
No medals hanging there.
A cheap and worthless badge,
Was all they had to show.
They all volunteered to serve,
But no one would ever know.
Ready to defend this land,
In times of peace or strife.
Without exception they all stood,
Though it might mean their life.
They are daily disrespected,
By those they signed to serve.
When they asked for recognition,
They were told they "had a nerve".
But the greatest disrespect,
From those they served alongside
Those who wear a gong or two,
And yet their service do deride.
D. J. B. 2012 Over a month ago
I have my support.
Although I won’t hold my breath.
During my service period (1964-1976) a GSM was awarded for Borneo, Malaya Peninsular, Radfan, Aden Over a month ago
we are i regret to say one of the few nations who does not give such a minor reward to any of our serving or former servicemen and women.
it is indeed an ignoble thing when one considers that some of the less able armed forces of the developing world can do this, but in the mother land of the great commonwealth, alas no. Over a month ago
iwas a regular in the rn. my views are thus: mp’s of all parties could’nt care less about servicemen past or present , all they are interested in is filling their own pockets Over a month ago
MOD personnel appear to gather under theold banner my Quartermaster use to quote "I’vegot it uou try and get it off me" I completed 26 years sevice and waited over 50 years for my Suez medal
M McGilloway
Over a month ago
Britain and it,s forces have served all over the world,I have purchased medals,which are or cannot be worned or not supposed to be worn,on the left sde but officail medals are.to get thses commemration medals an weear them provokes hostility among some who do not like it to bad i wear them on parade when i want to go on them,people are never happy unless they are moaning. Over a month ago
I served in the RAF from 1965 until 1975 no recognition! I reside in Australia my neighbour was a National serviceman called up, not volunteer. 2 years local army base - Gong -recognition! Over a month ago
I hate to be a wet blanket chaps, however, I do feel it’s a lost cause. Those that make the decisions i.e. Politicians, top civil service types are only interested in their own grandiose status - as they see it! We who served are irrelivant now our service is done. Still, keep up the campaign, you never know come election time we all might be promised a V.C. each. Now, have you ever heard an M.P. not keep a promise?!! Over a month ago
I am still waiting for recognition for 1956 Suez Canal As a veteran the Government should automatically give this for free and get rid of all the non British hangers on Over a month ago
Kelvin Brown.
Succesive Governments of this country have never bothered to recognise the service our Armed forces perform for this country no one tells our young men and women to join up we do so of our own free will but get no form of recognion for it i myself served in Northern Ireland and Berlin that is why i think it is important for veterans to get some sort of NDM Over a month ago
Anyone who puts on the uniform of one of Her Majestys Armed Forces puts thier life on the line and should recieve recognition for that. There are a lot of blokes who were on active service but not in theatre long enough to get a medal, while some never left the UK and got one. Make sense of that. Over a month ago
Good luck to the NDM campaign, it looks like we will be forgotten again over diamond jubilee medal, i received the silver jubilee medal whilst serving in the RN. With a government and PM like the present who have decimated the armed forces, in particular the fleet-iar-arm to the point of extiction who have no respect for our service personnel there is no chance of recognition. my son was good enough to be sent to iraq/afghan and has now been made redundant along with many others. once again good luck Carl Jordan Esq.,JP.MBACP. EX COLD WAR VETERAN Over a month ago
You serve you are sent of to do the P.M. bidding you do not get a pat on the back not a thank you no body cares i support the NDM does the P.M. read this or even know what,s going on Over a month ago
I fully support this endeavour for a NDM. Politicians are always breaking their promises to the Nation as a whole, once they get into power. It is all part of the constant erosion of the "Military Covenant" for them to ignore what the many servicemen/women have given for their country over the many years, even if they have not found themselves in a conflict zone (the canal zone was, but no medal, the "Cold WAR" was). It is only right that the people who were willing to stand up and be counted be recognised for their SERVICE. Over a month ago
Good luck to the Campaign.Looks like we will be shafted again over current Jubilee medal. I was on coronation parade and like 100s of other got nothing,I give this my full support
Over a month ago
Come on lads, pass the information about this petitiion onto all your friends and family, and get them to do the same.
We really have to highlight this issue and make sure the UK public are aware of it.
Well done to Tony and Co and keep up the great work. Over a month ago
I fully support the NDM medal for all veterans, it is about time the Government, stopped doing nothing! but talk about helping veterans and step up to the mark. Over a month ago
I fully support the campaign for a National Defence medal. As usual to MoD and the government are not listening to those who have served for many years, often in areas that will remain unreported and with no recognition once they have left the services. Keep up the good work Tony and Terry!!! Over a month ago
Jim Sherry... The older i get the more proud i feel to have served my National Service and wore the uniform of Her Majesty’s Forces. The 1 question i have to ask. Those Politicians Over a month ago
Having served in the Far East 1954 to 1956 with The Kings Own Royal Regiment I fully support this campaign to recognise the service that members of the military gave to Queen and Country, it is long overdue. Maurice E. Staley Over a month ago
After 17 years service I met the Queen in Silver Jubilee year.Faslane received in the order of ^ medals for an approximate contingent of about 3000 people.We were shafted,The basically drew lots from a bucket. Over a month ago
All ex service personnel deserve recognition of service even though many of us did not see active service ,all thought I served in BAOR, north Africa ,Cyprus, and the U K during my time in North Africa we were sent into Cyprus three times to calm the Islanders down once the government had the time to move a unit from the U K or BAOR ,we were sent back to our mother unit within the time limit of 28days therefor no active service medals for us, I will not be holding my breath waiting to be recognised. John Brehaut Ex REME Over a month ago
I served in Berlin in the mid 50s before the Berlin wall was constructed and our Married quarters were only separated by four or five strands of fencing wire and with russian tanks parading along the other side No awards were ever made for that posting tho the russians were all round us Over a month ago
I support it but remember the Russian Convoys ? David Cameron promised recognition for those now very old veterans (during his campaigning for Prime Minister of course) now does he care? No. So I don’t think we are going to achieve any recognition. I dare not say any more. Over a month ago
I more than support this surgestion but like most things today its all about the cost.What with the cut backs and the idea of reducing our well earned Military Pension. Will be interesting to see how much of my Reserved Military Pension is left when i apply for it in 3 years time. Over a month ago
We down here in New Zealand have already done this we have called it the NZ Defence Service Medal with three clasps
a. Territorial
b. Regular
c. CMT (Compulsory Military Training)
Many former Servicemen and women are very happy that their service to the nation has now been recognised. Over a month ago
I WAS IN BOAR RSF , SOME WERE SENT TO MALAYA , SOME SENT TO KOREA , THEN WE ALL HAD TO DO 4 YEARS WITH TA RESERVES ,I SUPPORT NDM CAMPAIGN Over a month ago
All armed forces personel should be recognised for their services with this medal. None of wanted praise but it would be nice to know someone cared Over a month ago
Like so many servicemen I served in UK and RAFG during the 70’s our efforts and those of all the other servicemen and women who served during the "Cold war" prevented the Soviets expanding their empire further west. Is it asking to much to have a token of appreciation from our country to say thank you to us for being willing to put ourselves in the front line if we had been call upon to do so. I support this proposition.
John Phillips. Over a month ago
I agree with everything that has been said before. In the so called small wars, 30days continous service in the war zone was required before the issue of a medal, if you only did 14 days returning to a safe base outside of the zone,then 7 days later returning to the WZ then the servicemen did not fulfil the requirements for the issue of a CSM. I support the NDM Campaign Over a month ago
They keep working on the principal that if you not serving you get nothing. We got shafted over the jubilee medals. We deserve our recognition for the time we put in - I did over 10 years and was made disable for life from injuries sustained in service. Give us respect and whats due. Over a month ago
I would fully support this campaign we all did not enlist for the sake of a medal but i believe some form of recognition from the government would be nice but I will not hold my breath waiting Over a month ago
It is worthy of note that what we all now know as the NDM National Defence Medal campaign starter by the good Tony Morland was predated by the National Service Veterans Alliance campaign for the National Service Medal now an integral component of the NDM of course at the outset a claim for the 2.2 million men conscripted into HM Armed Forces from the close of World War 2 to cessation of Conscription in 1963 and of course for all who followed in our Armed Forces to this day, however it must not be forgotten who and where it all started and that is with the Alliance. Over a month ago
I have nothing to show I served in the Armed Forces, except my veterans lapel badge. I was never involved in any conflict, but if called upon I would have gone as that was my job. I believe ex-servicemen should be recognised by this medal. Over a month ago
I have often thought there should be a medal for those who served during the "Cold War" and fully support this campaign. Gordon Clack ex-53 and 42 Squadrojns, RAF Over a month ago
I fully support this cause. The Medal should automatically be awarded along with a Veterans Lapel Badge. ALL our service personal past and present have earned it. Over a month ago
I fully support this cause
All our ex service personal are worthy of a NDM. It should automatically be awarded along with a Veterans Lapel Badge.
Over a month ago
This is a very good cause, as an Ex-Serviceman I feel we should all be gratified by our country for the work we have done in the past and the future by all Over a month ago
As a former National Serviceman who served in the Canal Zone I know that we lost many colleagues to Arab action with no mention in the press back home. I was shot at on several occasions and it was not the easy posting that we had been told it was. Over a month ago
I fully support this campaign it’s long overdue as an old soldier who served in Korea 56/57. I Always thought we should get some recognition for being there,like the rest of the men and women who served their country all over the world. (Not much to ask is it.) Over a month ago
I fully support this proposal and I also support an LSM after 12 year engagements. Twelve years in a forces environment although enjoyable is a long military career and should be recognised by this Government. They say they support the Armed Forces and Veterans now is the time to prove it. It has already been stated the cost is minimal but the effect is significant, particular to forces personnel both past and present. Over a month ago
Our governments simply do not care about we Veterans, this present one, and all previous governments are conspicuous in their lack of care. High time all veterans were recognised! Over a month ago
Yes i think this would be a nice thank you for those who served queen and country,dont leave it to late like the pension for those who served and died on the buma-thai railway ,i had a friend who was on it and died of old age before he could get one penny he was 17 6 months old when captured ,i myself was 6 months old when my father was killed at the Falise Pocket in Normandy i then entered the AAJLR at 15 in 1959 serving till 1975 we fought hard to be allowed to wear the J.P.M.malaya medal when the Australian and New Zealand forces was granted permission to wear theirs ,come on this Government you are well supported give a little back as a small token which i imagine would cost less to make than a bottle of water what we now have to pay for. Over a month ago
There is lack of support for ex service personnel once they have served their time. Even their state pension is reduced due to the forces paying 6% less on national insurance contributions for having its own medical service. This medal would go a long way in recognising their efforts. I fully support this campaign. Over a month ago
Most service personnel who served from early 50’s up to Falklands, received no recognition of their service, this is a way that we can be recognised and rewarded for that service, Over a month ago
As an exserviceman I support this campaign in meory of all those who have given their lives in the service to our country and the efforts of the others who are still alive today. Over a month ago
None of us joined up because we wanted a medal as such, we were simply drawn to a career that saw us deprived of so much that civilians take for granted, the pay wasn’t all that to boast of either. At any time and without recourse, our chosen career could be ended, usually either with the minimum of consideration or recompense or all too often, none at all. Now we see other nations honouring their Veterans with a tangible sign in appreciation of their dedicated Service and wonder perforce whether their efforts were superior to ours, because we see no such thing applied to us and that has to be addressed. We seek parity with our overseas brethren, whether Commonwealth or Allied, even our erstwhile foes show more respect for their Veterans than is shown to us. Level the playing field and do the right thing by granting the NDM.
Gerry. Over a month ago
Come on lads, pass the information about the petitiion onto all your friends and family.
We really have to highlight this issue and make sure the UK public are aware of it.
Well done Tony and keep up the great work. Over a month ago
This campaign has my full support. The British Armed Forces confronted the Warsaw Pact armies for 40 years in Germany and elsewhere acting as a deterrent against aggression prior to that alliance breaking up along with the Berlin Wall. Surely HMG’s position cannot be that their country’s armed forces played no part in the downfall of communism? If so we should be told. If, however, we did play a part then like Canada has done this should be recognised with the award of a National Defence Medal fully funded by the British Government. Over a month ago
As an ex-serviceman I fully support this campaign and hope that Tony ia succesfull in his efforts. We do need as many people to sign this petition before 16th Feb so that it can go forward. Over a month ago
Great project. If the New Zealanders, and their Aussies cousins, have a medal for service why not in the UK? In addition, the LSGCM is awarded after fifteen years service. Why? Many thousands joined in the late forties and fifties for a twelve year engagement and got SFA for their efforts. The Canadians have the right idea with their LSM (CD) at twelve years. Keep pegging away Tony. Over a month ago
One of many reasons to support this campaign:
Graveside
Some soldiers died today,
Though no one gave a care.
For they were Cold War warriors,
No medals hanging there.
A cheap and worthless badge,
Was all they had to show.
They all volunteered to serve,
But no one would ever know.
Ready to defend this land,
In times of peace or strife.
Without exception they all stood,
Though it might mean their life.
They were daily disrespected,
By those they signed to serve.
When they asked for recognition,
They were told they "had a nerve".
But the greatest disrespect,
From those they served alongside.
Those who wore a gong or two,
Absent from their graveside.
D. J. B. 2012 Over a month ago
I support this campaign because the Veterans badge is a really poor attempt to show any recognition and has shown to be innapropriate for a number of reasons. I am aware that ex serviceman have applied for the badge simply because that is all that is available but even so, the take up has been a mere 10%. Time to foolow our Aussie and Anzac colleagues and get this through. Over a month ago
When you here of some of the rubbish this goverment are spenting money on they should spent it on a worthwhile cause like the NDM, all power to Tony and Terry for the work they have been doing with the campaign. Over a month ago
Charles is absolutely correct and Tont and Terry have been doing stirling work on this campaign, unfortunately the only fly in the ointment is Roboflop, our so called veterans minister. The only thing we need to remember is HM The Queen has already set the precedent with the Aussie and Kiwi Defence/Service medals, and we will win. Over a month ago
Of course You all British Cold war veterans should have a medal and the rest.You all earn it.Tony is doing a magnificent job.We Dutch at least have our recognition by having a medal via UNV KOVOM(Dutch cold war association) who initiated this in cooperation with the Dutch MoD.Our contacts with them are superb and having all the needs by using MoD barracks for gatherings,celebrations commemorating the cold war era.This year we have our eight edition. Over a month ago
I know many soldiers were killed or badly injurred on various exercises in BAOR, the IRA were also targeting cars with BFG plates, which had to be changed to standard German civvie plates. Over a month ago
Of course we should have a medal for service in Germany during the Cold war.
In addition to the importance of the mission in Germany, many servicemen died on exercises and as a result of terrorism.
Sadly, the UK government would prefer to forget this importrant period of our history but are quick enough to take the credit for it.
I think it is time senior officers, both past and present, started to push this issue with some vigour.
Over a month ago
Many of those who also served, feel unable to stand alongside decorated veterans as they have nothing from a grateful nation to show that they indeed were willing to stand up and be counted.
I had a colleague who was killed by the IRA in Holland in 1988 (we were not in a combat zone), an IED was also planted on a neighbours car which was made safe. These were the daily real dangers.
I served in the RAF in Germany and the Falklands (post 82), and only feel able to stand on the sidelines and watch every year when remembering my former comrades.
It is important for veterans to “receive some tangible evidence of the Nation’s gratitude”. That is why I support the NDM Campaign - Support For Veterans Over a month ago
I AGREE WITH THIS ISSUSE EVEN DOWN TO THE TROOPS STATIONED IN BAOR AS THEY ARE ON STANBY TO BE SENT ANYWHERE THE GOVERMENT SEES FIT TO SEND THEM THEY SHOULD BE GIVEN THE CREDIT THAT THEY EARNED AND DESERVE . Over a month ago
British Veterans National Defence Medal (NDM) Campaign - Started by 
