British Defence Medal 1939–1945 A powerful symbol of resilience and sacrifice. Instituted in May 1945, this medal honors the unsung heroes—civilian and military—who stood firm during the darkest days of World War II. Its striking ribbon tells a story: green fields of Britain intertwined with the orange flames of the Blitz, embodying courage on the home front and in territories under threat. More than a collectible, the Defence Medal is a living artifact—an emblem of endurance, community, and the