Replacing Stolen or Damaged Medals
For many veterans, medals and badges are more than just awards – they are symbols of service, sacrifice, and pride. These items often hold deep personal significance and serve as reminders of years of dedication; however, unfortunately sometimes these items can get stolen, lost or damaged. Fortunately, it is possible to replace medals and veterans' badges, and the process is a straightforward one.
Replacing Lost Medals
If you’ve had medals stolen or damaged in a fire or flood, you may be eligible for replacements through the Ministry of Defence (MOD). Here’s how to apply:
- Check eligibility – Replacement medals are issued free of charge only to the next of kin of deceased veterans if the medals were never originally claimed. For living veterans, you’ll have to pay for the replacement medal plus a fee.
- Prove service - You’ll need supporting documents such as
- a Service Record or Certificate of Service, to confirm eligibility. The medal must have been awarded for service after World War 1.
- a letter explaining how the medal was stolen or destroyed.
Download and fill in the medal application form to ask for a replacement medal. Post the form to the MOD Medal Office, along with your supporting documents. The address is on the form.
Replacing an armed forces veterans’ badge
Anyone who has served in the UK armed forces is entitled to a veterans’ badge.
There’s no fee if you’re replacing your badge for the first time, however if your veterans' badge has been lost or damaged more than once, replacements are not issued by the MOD. Instead, you can purchase a replacement from reputable military memorabilia suppliers.
Apply for your replacement veterans’ badge online (scroll down to the green Apply online button).
Injured in service?
If you think you, or someone you know, could be due compensation for an injury they have suffered whilst serving in the armed forces, get in touch.