Description
Papua New Guinea, Police Valour badge, “For Bravery”, reverse numbered 68, with reverse loops for wear.
Reverse impressed with the number “68” and also stamped “STG. SIL.” for Sterling Silver.
Provenance, ex Noonans 22nd September 2006.
An unusual and rare medal, rather than having a suspension and ribbon it features two loops on the back in the style of a cap badge intended to be worn on the breast.
Known locally as the Papua New Guinea Police Valour Badge.
This rarely seen silver medal was awarded by the Government of Papua New Guinea beginning around the World War 2 period some note that it was issued only between 1940 and 1962, period newspapers note that it was likely instituted about 1944.
This medal was mostly awarded during WW2 for fighting the Japanese in the New Guinea Campaign.
The Darwin Army News, 6th July 1944 recalls the institution of the new award:
“BRAVERY BADGE FOR PAPUAN POLICE
Canberra, Tuesday – Authority has been given for a new badge to be known as the Papuan-New Guinea Native Police Valour badge.
It can be awarded by the commander in chief of the Australian Military Forces to native members of the Royal Papuan Constabulary for conspicuous bravery involving risk to life.
The medallion will be circular and of sterling silver, bearing the words “For Bravery” on the face.
Recommendations for the award may now be submitted.
“My Gun My Brother, The World of the Papua New Guinea Colonial Police 1920-1960” recalls the WW2 service of Papua New Guinea and the awards of the badge:
“In the whole campaign, a total of 3,137 Policemen they lost 28 men.
members of both the Papuan Infantry Regiment and the Royal Papuan Constabulary were awarded decorations.
Of these, 4 Police received the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM), 2 the George Medal (GM), 15 the Military Medal (MM), 8 the British Empire Medal (BEM), 297 the Long Service Medal and 28 the Papua New Guinea Police Valour Badge.”
