History

This medal is conferred upon military personnel and civilians in recognition of meritorious service to Zimbabwe and the general international community.

There are five versions of the medal. The ribbon is green with orange, black, and two red stripes for the Army, Air Force, Police, and Prison Medal for Meritorious Service, while the ribbon has only one red stripe for the Civilian Medal for Meritorious Service.

The different versions of the medal are discernible by the image on the medal's suspension bar.

Army awards have oak leaves on the suspension bar; Air Force awards have an eagle with stretched wings on the suspension bar; Police awards have the balance of justice on the suspension bar; Prison Service awards have a key on the suspension bar; and the rare Civilian awards have flame lilies on the suspension bar.

Also, the name of the recipient may be impressed on the reverse.