United Kingdom: The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire
Ribbon: Rose Pink with grey edges and a central grey stripe.
Instituted: 4 June 1917 by King George V.
Awarded: For services in any realm of activity, including non-combattant military ones.
Grades: Five (Knight/Dame Grand Cross, Knight/Dame Commander, Commander, Officer and Member) plus a Medal, in Civil and Military Divisions.
Post-nominal letters: - Knight/Dame Grand Cross - GBE; Knight Commander - KBE; Dame Commander - DBE; Commander - CBE; Officer - OBE; Member - MBE.
| 1st Type (Civil) 1917-35 |
1st Type (Military) 1917-35 |
2nd Type (Civil) 1935 - date |
2nd Type (Military) 1935 - date |
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| Grand Cross: Collar | Grand Cross: Star | Grand Cross: Badge |
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| Grand Cross: Mantle | Knight Commander: Badge | Knight or Dame Commander: Star |
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| Dame Commander: Badge | Commander (male) | Commander (female) |
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Note that in uniform, female holders wear their insignia in the same manner as men; yet are presented with the 'female' form of insignia. |
| Officer | Member |
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Page last updated: 2 April 2007