11 Oct 2010

New military medal announced

7:16 pm on 11 October 2010

The Government has announced a new medal for military service.

Once approved by the Queen, the New Zealand Defence Service Medal will be awarded to those who have served in the military for more than three years since World War II, as well as to those who have done compulsory military training or national military service.

More than 160,000 people are estimated to be eligible for the medal.

The initial call for applications will be restricted to those aged 50 and over, but after six to 12 months it will be opened up to all others.

Cabinet has approved $3.85 million to make and distribute the medal.