family tributes

skill and devotion to duty whilst flying in non-operational circumstances

Since 1937 the cross has had the year of award engraved - usually on the bottom arm but examples do exist engraved in the centre

The etch around the base bears the names of the six wives

Speech to the House of Commons may 13th 1940 - "

OBE Military - First Type Category_ACSM family tributesThe OBE or The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire was instituted in 1917. This is the 1st type OBE awarded up to 1935. As with the present day award, the Military and civilian awards are distinguished by a white stripe down the centre of the Military award. There are five classes of appointment to the Order are, in descending order of precedence: The GBE: Knight Grand Cross or Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire