United Nations Korea Medal awarded to able seaman Richard Peter Clifford
Date1950-1954
Object number00034460
NameMedal
MediumMetal, cloth
DimensionsOverall: 94 x 38 mm, 2 mm, 0.04 kg
ClassificationsCoins and medals
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionA United Nations Service Medal For Korea awarded to Richard Peter Clifford, Able Seaman aboard HMAS TOBRUK, for service in the Korean War (3 June 1953 - 12 February 1954).
The medal is bronze alloy with bar and a blue and white pin striped ribbon. The text on the bar reads 'KOREA'.
On one side of the circiular medal is the embelm of the United Nations of the 'World in Wreath' and on the other side are the words "For service in defence of the principles of the charter of the United Nations".HistoryThe United Nations Service Medal was awarded to any military service member, of an Armed Force allied with South Korea, who participated in the defense of South Korea from North Korea between the dates of June 27, 1950 and July 27, 1954
The United Nations Service Medal for Korea (UNKM) is an international military decoration which was established by the United Nations on December 12, 1950. The decoration was the first international award ever created by the United Nations and recognized the multi-national defense forces which participated in the Korean War.
SignificanceMedals have been awarded to military personnel in Australia as commemorative items for war service and are traditionally worn by veterans on ANZAC Day. Medals such as this United Nations Korea Medal show the role of Royal Australian Naval Personnel in the conflicts of the twentieth century.
