Established in 1854, the Distinguished Conduct Medal could only be awarded to Warrant Officers, NCO's, and other ranks. For non-commissioned personel it was a distinction second only to the Victoria Cross. The medal bears an effigy of the reigning Monarch with the words "For Distinguished Conduct in the Field" on the reverse. The medal is hung from a scroll clasp with a red and blue ribbon. 

BEM = British Empire Medal

DOW = Died of Wounds

KIA = Killed in Action

MiD = Mentioned in Despatches

6th Airborne Division