1939-1945 Star
1943
The 1939-1945 Star is a Campaign Star instituted by Great Britain in 1943 and authorised in Canada on 16 August 1946. It was awarded for operational service during the Second World War and the one star that covers service for the duration of the war. A recipient in the army, navy, and merchant marine had to have served 180 days afloat or on land in an operational area. For air crew and airborne soldiers, it was 60 days. The recipient of a gallantry award or mentioned-in-despatches was awarded this star regardless of time served and those who were killed, disabled or captured prior to the required time criteria were also eligible. The 1939-1945 Star awarded to 305,000 Canadians was produced at the Royal Canadian Mint in Ottawa. Two bars have authorised for the 1939-1945 Star and they are:
Battle of Britain: The bar was awarded to the air crews of fighter aircraft that participated in the Battle of Britain from 10 July to 31 October 1940.
Bomber Command: This bar was authorised in 2012 and eligible veterans who served in any rank or role with Bomber Command for one day between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945. Canadian Bomber Command veterans do not receive this bar for the 1939-1945 Star because they wear the Bomber Command bar authorised for the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal.