Mentioned in Despatches (M.I.D.)

Mentioned in Despatches is not an award of a medal, but as a commendation of an act of gallantry. To be Mentioned in Despatches is when an individual is mentioned by name and commended for having carried out an noteworthy act of gallantry or service.

A Despatch is an official report written by the senior commander of an army in the field. It would give details of the conduct of the military operations being carried out. These Despatches are published in the London Gazette in full or in part.

In 1919 Army Order 166/1919 confirmed that individuals Mentioned in Despatches would receive a certificate. This included personnel of the British Navy, Army and Air Force, and Indian Dominion, Colonial, Egyptian Forces and members of the Red Cross, Y.M.C.A., Y.W.C.A. and British civilians, male and female.

In 1920 Army Order 3/1920 authorized the issue of an emblem to signify that an individual had been Mentioned in Despatches between 4th August 1914 and 10th August 1920. A bronze oak leaf was issued and could be worn on the ribbon of the British Victory Medal.

The London Gazette. The Gazette can be searched online: www.london-gazette.co.uk/search