History

The South Africa Medal (1854) was established by General Order on November 22, 1854. The Medal was awarded in commemoration of successful campaigns lead during the Xhosa Wars. It was awarded to Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers and enlisted men of the British Army in recognition of participation in the Sixth Frontier War (1834-1836), the Seventh Frontier War (1846-1847), and the Eighth Frontier War (1850-1853). A small number of Marines and members of the Royal Navy who participated in the latter of these campaigns were also recipients of the Medal.