History

The Voluntary Medical Service Medal was instituted by King George the V in 1832. The Silver Medal is awarded to members of the British Red Cross Society and the St. Andrew's Ambulance Corps of Scotland in recognition of 15 years of service. Service since 1909 is also eligible for the award.

Clasps that feature a superimposed geneva or saltine (St. Andrew's) cross may be awarded to denote an additional 5 years of service. A silver geneva or saltine cross may be worn on the ribbon when the ribbon is worn alone to denote the award of a clasp. A gilt cross is worn to denote 20 additional years of service and a second, third, and fourth gilt cross is worn to denote 25, 30, or 35 additional years of service, respectively.

There are multiple versions of the Medal which differ by composition. Privately altered versions of the Medal may also be encountered.

There may be additional versions of the Medal which vary by manufacturer.