The Distinguished Service Order was instituted by Queen Victoria in 1886, and it is awarded to officers for meritorious or distinguished service in war. In most instances it is given to officers with senior command responsibilities, typically upwards of Major, however it can be bestowed upon junior officers, usually in cases of conspicuous valour. The decoration features a gold Imperial Crown and a green laurel leaf, centred upon a gold cross enamelled white and hung from a blue-edged red ribbon.

MBE = Member of the British Empire

MC = Military Cross

2nd Bar to the Distinguished Service Order

Distinguished Service Order