History

There are two versions of the New Zealand Memorial Cross. The first version of the Silver Cross (1947-1952) was established by King George VI, King of New Zealand, in 1947. It was created to recognise servicemen and women who were killed while on war service, overseas operational service, or whose death was a result from wounds received during any of these situations, particularly during Second World War in the 1940s and 1950s. It was awarded to the next of kin.

The Silver Cross (1947-1952) bears the cypher of George VI on the obverse, along with a superimposed depiction of the king’s crown. The name of the deceased is engraved on the reverse. It was worn around the neck on a purple ribbon.

The second version of the Silver Cross (1960-) was established by Queen Elizabeth II in 1960. It recognises service men and women who were killed while on war service, overseas operational service, or whose death was a result from wounds received during any of these situations since the Second World War. It is awarded to the next of kin.

The Silver Cross (1960-) bears the cypher of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse, depicts a queen’s crown, and is worn as a brooch. The name of the deceased is engraved on the reverse.