Africa Star (1940-1943)

Star, six pointed, in copper-zinc alloy approx 44.5mm in height and 51mm in width. The obverse design bears the 'GRI VI' cypher, ornate, in a circular centrepiece surrounded by an edged band bearing text 'THE AFRICA STAR'. The star is suspended (via a linked ring on the tip of uppermost ray) by a ribbon 31mm in width of pale buff with a central vertical stripe of red and narrower vertical stripes of dark blue to the left and light blue to the right. The design of the ribbon is attributed to HM King George VI. The buff colour represents the desert; the red the Armies; the dark blue the Naval Forces and Merchant Navy and the light blue the Air Forces

Second World War campaign star awarded to Lieutenant Commander John Bridge, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (RNVR). For biographical information and details of the circumstances of award for his George Cross and George Medal (and bar) see OMD 6377. One of a group of ten medals, OMD 6377-6386.

John Bridge won the George Cross for clearing enemy depth charges from Messina Harbour in Sicily in August 1943. During the war he was also awarded the George Medal twice, and a King's Commendation for Brave Conduct; in each instance this was for defusing bombs and mines. His leading role in clearing over 200 devices at Messina showed exceptional bravery - however the citation for his GC published in the London Gazette of 20 June 1944 is brief: "for great gallantry and undaunted devotion to duty." See file for detailed account of his actions.

Second World War campaign star awarded to Lieutenant Commander John Bridge, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (RNVR). For biographical information and details of the circumstances of award for his George Cross and George Medal (and bar) see OMD 6377. One of a group of ten medals, OMD 6377-6386.