The Arctic Star was instituted to recognise the service of British and Commonwealth personnel who participated in the Arctic Convoys between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945

this award was originally known as the Conspicuous Service Cross and was issued for gallantry in presence of the enemy to warrant and subordinate officers of the RN who were ineligible (on account of their rank) for the Distinguished Service Order

The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross was instituted in 1993 as part of the restructuring of the honours system and was designed to remove distinction between ranks

The GVI version bears the effigy of King George VI and was awarded during his reign between 1936 and 1952

UN Afghanistan & Pakistan UNGOMAP UNTSO Medal gsm ni The Arctic Star was institutedOperational Service Medal Afghanistan. Awarded for service from 1st March 2002 in the Afghanistan theatre of operations.