History

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire was established by King George V in 1917 to recognize civilian war efforts in Great Britain and elsewhere in the British Empire. Military and civil divisions were established the following year. It has since grown into the most widely awarded order in the United Kingdom. The Sovereign is the head of the Order and makes the appointment of the Grand Master.

The Order is currently conferred upon citizens of the United Kingdom in recognition of excellence in a number of areas of British public life, including the arts and culture, science, philanthropy, and public service. Membership in the first, second and third classes is limited, while membership in the fourth and fifth classes is limited to an annual contingent. Women have been admitted since its creation in 1917. Foreigners may also be admitted, but only as Honorary Members, and are not counted in statutory membership limits.

Members of the first class are entitled to use the post-nominal letters GBE, members of the second class are entitled to use the post-nominal letters KBE or DBE, members of the third class are entitled to use the post-nominal letters CBE, members of the fourth class are entitled to use the post-nominal letters OBE, and members of the fifth class are entitled to use the post-nominal letters MBE. Members of the first and second classes are also entitled to use the formal title “Sir” or “Dame.”

The motto of the Order is “FOR GOD AND THE EMPIRE.”

There are 2 versions of the Grand Cross Breast Star. The first version dates from 1917 to 1937 and features decorations depicting an effigy of Britannia on the obverse medallion. The second version was instituted with the restructuring of the Order in 1937 and features decorations which depict the portraits of King George V and Queen Mary on the obverse medallion. The cypher of George V is featured on the reverse medallion of both versions.

The Grand Cross Breast Star is worn by Knights and Dames Grand Cross on less formal occasions along with a sash and Grand Cross. It is identical for both the civil and military divisions.