While we ex British servicemen still fight for the right to wear the PJM, our commonwealth brothers have received another medal from our Sovereign. It is interesting to read why this medal has been present. Here is the statement.

The New Zealand Defence Service Medal announced by the Prime Minister today closes a long-standing gap in medallic recognition of military service, Defence Minister Wayne Mapp says.

“Military service has unique requirements – a commitment to serving the Crown, being liable for operational service, and being subject to military discipline and the demands and constraints of the military lifestyle.

“The new medal recognises non-operational military service in the Defence Force by New Zealanders. Those who have served in the military for more than three years since World War Two, and those who did compulsory military training or national military service, will qualify.

“The Government places high value on non-operational service. Those service people were ready and willing to serve on operations and provided essential support to those who did,” the Minister said.

Pity the British Government doesn't have the same values.

Walter Crookes