From UKOGB Wiki, the free encyclopedia
British Empire Medal | |
|---|---|
| Awarded by | The Sovereign |
| Precedence | 22 |
| Post-nominals | BEM |
The British Empire Medal (BEM) is a medal awarded for meritorious civil or military service worthy of recognition by the Crown. It is associated with the Order of the British Empire, though holders are not members of the order.
History
The medal was instituted in 1917 alongside the Order of the British Empire, and took its present form in 1922. It is often given for long-term charity, voluntary or community work: the kind of service that keeps a neighbourhood going.
In UKOGB
The medal is awarded by The Sovereign, usually on the advice of the Prime Minister, and holders use the letters BEM after their name. Any member can nominate another on the website.
This page was last edited on 3 November 2026.