Eight Stars were issued for the campaigns of World War II. The Stars are a six-pointed star, in bronze, with the cypher of King George VI in the centre. The title of each Star appears around the cypher and also a different ribbon denotes each separate Star. The colours of the ribbons have symbolic significance and are believed to have been designed personally by King George VI.
Two Medals, the Defence Medal and the War Medal, were issued in recognition of general service in WWII. These are circular medals made in cupro-nickel.
The criteria for the award of medals to those who had fought in WW II were finalised in 1948. In accordance with the criteria, the medals were issued un-named.
No more than five Stars may be awarded to one person. Regulations relating to the award of the Pacific, Burma, Atlantic, Air Crew Europe and France and Germany Stars prevent this from happening.
Those who would qualify for more are awarded a Clasp with the title of one of the Stars to which they qualify. This Clasp is then attached to the ribbon of one of the other Stars, as laid out in the regulations.
A candidate may qualify for both the Pacific and Burma Stars but is only awarded one of these, which will be the first Star earned. He will then receive a Clasp with the title of the second Star earned which is worn on the ribbon of the first.
Another candidate may qualify for two or three of the Atlantic, Air Crew Europe and France and Germany Stars. In this instance the first Star earned is awarded. He will then receive a Clasp with the title of the second Star earned to be worn on the ribbon of the first. A third Star or Clasp will not be awarded in this case.
The 1939-45 Star, Africa Star and Italy Star can all be awarded regardless of which other Stars are qualified for.
For examples of the Clasps and which Stars they are worn on, see the pictures of the Stars on the individual pages.