Distinguished Conduct Medal


 * Not to be confused with the Distinguished Service Order

The Distinguished Conduct Medal or DCM was introduced in 1854 by Queen Victoria during the Crimean War and was, until 1993, the second highest decoration awarded to 'other ranks' in the British Army for gallantry, bravery and devotion to duty. As a result of a review of the honours system, the Distinguished Conduct Medal, the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (equivalent to the DCM) and the Distinguished Service Order (awarded to officers) were discontinued and replaced with the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross. This recognises distinction regardless of rank.

Since 1993 the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross has served as the second highest award for gallantry. This applies to all ranks across the entirity of the armed forces.