Medals and wearing of medals hold immense significance in the lives of Ex-Servicemen, symbolizing their dedication, bravery, and service to the nation. They are a tangible representation of their sacrifices and achievements during their military career. Understanding when and where these medals should be worn is an important aspect of maintaining the decorum and dignity associated with these honours. The following guidelines have been established for Ex-Servicemen regarding the wearing of full-size medals and miniature medals on civil attire.
Wearing of Full Medals
Ex-Servicemen are allowed and encouraged to wear their full-medals on specific ceremonial occasions. These events are generally of national importance, military significance, or formal receptions. The following occasions are considered appropriate for the wearing of full medals:
- Republic Day Parade: Republic Day, celebrated on the 26th of January each year, marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of India. For Ex-Servicemen, this is a prime occasion to wear their full medals as it is a national celebration of the country’s democratic foundation and its armed forces.
- Independence Day Function: Independence Day, celebrated on the 15th of August, is another event where Ex-Servicemen are encouraged to wear their full medals. It symbolizes the nation’s freedom and the armed forces’ role in maintaining that independence.
- Service Day/Raising Day/Corps Day: Many branches of the military have specific days dedicated to the celebration of their respective services. On such days, wearing full-medals is appropriate to honour the legacy of the service and its personnel.
- Vijay Diwas: This day commemorates India’s victory in the war, marking an important moment in the history of the nation and its military forces. Wearing full medals on this occasion demonstrates respect and acknowledgment of the sacrifices made during the conflict.
- Wreath Laying on Memorial Day: During solemn ceremonies such as the laying of wreaths on Memorial Day or other occasions to honour the fallen soldiers, full medals are worn to show deep respect for those who laid down their lives in service to the nation.
- Reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan and Governor’s House: Ex-Servicemen who are invited to receptions at the Rashtrapati Bhawan or Governor’s House for formal events are expected to wear their full medals. These are prestigious occasions where wearing medals reflects the honour and recognition bestowed upon them.
- Standard/Colour Presentation Parade/Functions: Standard or Colour Presentation parades are significant military events where full medals are to be worn. These parades honour units with distinguished service records.
- Passing Out Parade: On occasions such as the passing out parade of new cadets or officers, Ex-Servicemen should wear their full medals to celebrate the new generation of soldiers stepping into the service of the nation.
- Anniversary/Re-union Functions: Military anniversaries and reunions provide an opportunity for Ex-Servicemen to meet and celebrate their shared experiences. Wearing full medals in such settings is a mark of respect for their service.
- State or Military Funerals: During state or military funerals, wearing full-medals is a gesture of respect for the deceased, particularly if they were a member of the armed forces.
- Embassy, Legation, or High Commission Invitations: When invited to any official function hosted by an Embassy, Legation, or High Commission, Ex-Servicemen are expected to wear their full-medals as part of formal attire.
- Armed Forces Functions or Ex-Servicemen’s Rallies: Any military function, including Ex-Servicemen’s rallies, provides a fitting opportunity to wear full medals to display pride in service and camaraderie among fellow veterans.
- When Called Upon in Aid to Civil Power: In rare instances where Ex-Servicemen are called upon to assist in civil power, full-medals may be worn as a mark of their former service.
- When Visiting Military Headquarters on Duty: Ex-Servicemen performing official duties or visiting military headquarters may wear their full-medals as a sign of respect and adherence to protocol.
Wearing of Miniature Medals
Miniature medals are a smaller, more practical version of full-size medals and are typically worn at formal events where full medals might not be suitable. These occasions are generally more social in nature but still require a level of formality. The following occasions are considered appropriate for the wearing of miniature medals:
- Official and Private Functions: Miniature medals are worn during functions such as dinners, cocktails, lunches, and receptions. These events could be held during the day or in the evening, and the miniature-medals serve as a more subtle reminder of the Ex-Servicemen’s achievements without the formality of full medals.
- Functions in Messes or Institutions: When attending functions in military messes or institutions, such as Service Day events or reunions, miniature medals are suitable for the occasion.
- Republic Day Parade and Independence Day Parade Related Functions: Miniature-medals can also be worn during events connected to national celebrations, such as receptions or gatherings held in relation to Republic Day or Independence Day.
- Reception at Service Chiefs’ Residence: Ex-Servicemen invited to formal receptions hosted by a Service Chief may wear miniature-medals as part of their formal attire.
- Embassy, Legation, or High Commission Invitations: Similar to full medals, miniature-medals may be worn when attending official functions hosted by Embassies, Legations, or High Commissions.
- Armed Forces Functions and Ex-Servicemen’s Reunions: Miniature-medals are also appropriate for Armed Forces functions and Ex-Servicemen’s rallies or reunions, providing a less formal alternative to full medals.
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Notes on Wearing of Medals
It is essential to maintain the dignity of medals, and they should not be worn in inappropriate settings. Specifically, Ex-Servicemen are prohibited from wearing medals during protests, marches, or political gatherings. Additionally, individuals who were dismissed from service or discharged on disciplinary grounds are not allowed to wear medals under any circumstances.
In conclusion, the wearing of medals by Ex-Servicemen on civil clothes is a matter of pride and respect, both for the individual and the armed forces as a whole. These guidelines ensure that medals are worn appropriately, reflecting the honour and sacrifices they represent.
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