by scully » Sun Jul 25, 2010 11:51 am
Hi Cheryl,
The only Clasp awarded with the 1914 Star Medal was for the period 5th August to 22nd November 1914. It was granted to any soldier who had been "under enemy fire" between those dates (the first months of the war). The Clasp was not sanctioned until 1919 and most had to be claimed personally by the recipient, which explains why there were far few clasps issued than men who should have received one. Many of the men who served in the first months of the war were killed in action.
The Clasp or bar as some may call it was a narrow medal bar with the words "5th AUG. - 22nd NOV. 1914" and was stitched on to the 1914 Star Medal ribbon when the medal and ribbon worn.
When the medal ribbons alone were worn, a silver rosette (Rose) attached to the centre of the ribbon denoted that that soldier was entitled to the Clasp.
Hope this helps.
Regards'
Louis (webmaster)