The 1939–1945 Star is a military campaign medal instituted by the United Kingdom on 8 July 1943 for award to British and Commonwealth forces for service in the Second World War. Two clasps were instituted to be worn on the medal ribbon, Battle of Britain and Bomber Type Military campaign medal Awarded for 180 days of operational service or 60 days of operational flying Country Flag of the United Kingdom.svg United Kingdom Presented by the Monarch of the United Kingdom and the Dominions of the British Commonwealth, and Emperor of India Eligibility All Ranks Campaign(s) Second World War Clasps BATTLE OF BRITAIN BOMBER COMMAND Established 8 July 1943 First awarded 1943 Next (higher) India General Service Medal (1936) Next (lower) Atlantic Star