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Distinguished Service Order

Lt Colonel Nick Vaux wearing his medals, including DSO and South Atlantic Medal (RMM)

Lt Colonel Nick Vaux RM wearing his medals, including DSO (left). (RMM)

 

Medal facts -

  • The Distinguished Service Order (DSO) was introduced in 1886 to recognise service personnel during wartime who did not qualify for the Victoria Cross.

  • It was usually rewarded to officers above the rank of Captain.

  • In September 1942 officers of the Merchant Navy also qualified for this award.

  • The 1993 review of gallantry awards and resultant changes to the gallantry award system means that the DSO is now awarded for 'Leadership' only, theoretically to all ranks.

  • The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross now replaces it as the reward for gallantry.

  • It is a silver-gilt medal, with a crimson ribbon with dark blue edges.

 

Read Commander Peterson's biography for details of a DSO winner

 

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