THE INDIAN ORDER OF MERIT.
Reading edition
A similar decoration to the Victoria Cross, called the Order of Merit, is given to native officers and men of the Indian Army, for personal bravery only. It is an eight-pointed star, having, on a blue enamelled ground, two crossed swords, surmounted by the words “Reward of Valour,” within a gilt laurel wreath. It is divided into three classes: the first, or senior star is gold; the second silver; and the third also silver, without the gilding. Ribbon: dark blue, with red edges. The third class is to be obtained by any conspicuous act of gallantry on the part of any native officer or soldier in the field, or in the attack or defence of fortified places. The second class is to be obtained by those only who already possess the third, and for similar services. The first class is to be obtained in like manner, only by those who already possess the third and second classes. Every member of the Order of Merit is entitled to additional pay, and on his death his widow receives this allowance for three years.
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