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Medal - Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George (CMG)

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Overview

The Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George is a British order of chivalry founded on 28 April 1818 by George, Prince of Wales, the future George IV, while he was acting as prince regent for his father, King George III. It is named in honour of two military saints, Michael and George. Companion is the third level of the Order which also includes Knights/Dames Grand Cross (GCMG) and Knights/Dames (KCMG). The badge of a Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George is a gold seven-pointed cross. The cross is enameled in white, with a central medallion featuring the image of St. Michael and St. George slaying a dragon. The Latin motto of the order is "Ausculta et Fac" (Listen and Do). is inscribedon the badge. The badge is suspended from a ribbon blue, red blue in equal proportions.

Historical information

The Order of St Michael and St George was originally awarded to those holding commands or high position in the Mediterranean territories acquired in the Napoleonic Wars, and was subsequently extended to holders of similar office or position in other territories of the British Empire. During World War I, the CMG was awarded to military officers who demonstrated outstanding leadership, gallantry, and service. These officers played crucial roles in various campaigns and operations, and their contributions were deemed deserving of recognition at this level which ranked below a knighthood.

Details

Registration number

cwa-org-32-99-141

Contextual Information

The Australian Army Museum of WA displays two examples of this insignia - those presented to Archbishop Charles Riley and Colonel Herbert Collett. In the style of the Order they were "appointed to" not "awarded" the honour

Links to additional resources

Colonel H Collett, CMG, DSO

Australian Army Museum of Western Australia

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