Belgian Military Decoration 1914 - 1918 : Gunner J R Ford, Royal Artillery

Belgian Military Decoration, 2nd class, with ribbon for a bravery award. An alternative ribbon meant that the Decoration has been awarded for long service. The medal is a 33mm wide triangular arm cross pattée in a gilt brass finish, with the angles in filled with pointed rays. Above is a fixed Royal crown with a ring suspension. Obverse medallion depicts the Belgian Lion within a circlet inscribed with the motto L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE. Reverse medallion depicts the royal monogram and the inscription 'ARMEE * MERITE * ANCIENNETE' within a circlet. It has a loose ring suspender and the ribbon is red with back and gold stripes down each edge.

Awarded to L/11349 Gunner John Ralph Ford, 152nd Brigade, Royal Artillery, a unit of the "New Army". Gunner Ford was also mentioned in dispatches "for gallant and distinguished services in the field". In the mid 1920s John Ford emigrated to Australia but returned to England shortly afterwards, leaving his medals in Australia with his sister.
The 1873 Military Decoration was created to reward 10 years minimum long and good service for warrant officers, NCOs and other ranks. It could also be awarded for gallantry, devotion to duty, or exceptional service. This second type is frequently referred to as an 'Article 4' award after the fourth article in the award criteria which defines the gallantry (etc.) classification.

• Belgian Croix de Guerre with silver palm : Gunner J R Ford, Royal Artillery