|
Obverse |
A Greek cross similar to the Military Cross with the royal cipher ‘EIIR’ in
the centre. The arms of the cross are of equal length and straight, with a
slight concave curve to the ends. Round the edges of the arms is a slight
ridge and the field is raised. Onto this is superimposed another matching
cross, but with no curve at the ends. The arms of the cross have V’s inset
in their ends and there is a raised central spine. At the end of the upper
arm is the imperial crown, while on each of the horizontal arms has a fern
leaf. A laurel wreath, comprising three leaves which overlap in each bunch
and two bunches of leaves to each quadrant, appears between the arms of the
larger cross. The gap between the wreath and the
cross is segmented. |
|
Reverse |
Plain and flat, with ‘STERLING’ in 1mm high letters and the silver hallmark
on the bottom of the lower arm. |
|
Size |
32mm x 32mm. |
|
Suspension |
Pin backed and worn as a broach. |
|
Composition |
Dull silver. |
|
Designers |
Not known, similar in design to the Canadian Memorial Cross. |
|
Naming |
Awards are named on the reverse in small impressed capitals. |
|
Ribbon |
None. |
|
No. of clasps |
None. |
|
Other emblems |
None. |
|
No. issued |
39 awards, 47 crosses issued. |
|
Instituted |
First instituted during the Second World War. The New Zealand Memorial Cross
is forwarded to the next-of-kin of all New Zealand servicemen and women who
are killed or died of wounds on active service overseas. |
|
Qualification |
More than one cross could be issued to a variety of next-of-kin for each
Serviceman, hence for the Korean War 47 crosses were issued for 39 personnel
who died. |
Part of the Red Oblong Network