Most Excellent Order of the British Empire | |
|---|---|
| Awarded by | The Sovereign |
| Classes | 5 |
The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire is an order of chivalry founded by King George V in 1917, during the First World War, to honour the many civilians as well as servicemen and women who contributed to the war effort. It is now the order most widely given, recognising contributions in every walk of life. It has five classes: Knight or Dame Grand Cross (GBE), Knight or Dame Commander (KBE or DBE), Commander (CBE), Officer (OBE) and Member (MBE). Its chapel is in St Paul's Cathedral, and its motto is "For God and the Empire".
Contents
Classes
- Knight or Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire (GBE)
- Knight or Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE)
- Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
- Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
- Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Appointment
Appointments are made by The Sovereign. Any member of UKOGB can nominate another for an honour on the website, and holders' honours are shown on their profiles with the date they were given.
See also
This page was last edited on 3 November 2026.