Orders and Decorations - Distinguished Service Cross (DSC)

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Terms

Originally designated the Conspicuous Service Cross (1901-1914), the Distinguished Service Cross was awarded to naval personnel, from Warrant Officer to Lieutenant, for the performance of meritorious or distinguished services before the enemy. In 1939, Commanders and Lieutenant-Commanders were also made eligible for the DSC. Members of the air force or army serving with the fleet were also eligible.

Bars

Bars were awarded for the performance of subsequent acts of service before the enemy. The slip-on bar is silver, with a crown in the centre, and is convex at the ends of the arms. Beginning during WWII the year of the award of the bar has been engraved on the back.

Description

A plain silver cross pattee, convex and 1.5625 inches across.

Obverse

The obverse shows the Royal Cypher on the circular central medallion surmounted by a crown. The cyphers GV, GVI and EIIR have been used for Canadian awards

Reverse

The reverse is plain, with the year of the award engraved on the lower arm.

Mounting

A large ring (0.75" in diameter) is linked to a small ring welded to the top arm.

Ribbon

The ribbon is 1.375 inches wide and consists of 3 equal stripes: navy blue, white, and navy blue. A rosette is worn in undress to signify a bar.

Dates

The award was originally established in June 1901 as the Conspicuous Service Cross and changed to the Distinguished Service Cross in October 1914.

Issued

A total of 199 DSC's have gone to Canadians, with 34 first and 5 second bars.