This Order was instituted in April 1818 by the Prince Regent (later George IV) and was intended to commemorate the placing of the Ionian Islands under British protection. It was originally intended for distinguished citizens of the islands, and also of Malta. At first, the Order was conferred upon those holding high position and commands in the Mediterranean but as the British Empire expanded the Order was extended to those who had given distinguished service in the Dominions and Colonies, as well as in foreign affairs generally. The Order consists of three classes: Knight Grand Cross (GCMG), Knight Commander (KCMG), and Companion (CMG). The Order's motto is Auspicium melioris aevi ('Token of a better age'). The Order features a depiction of the archangel St Michael holding a flaming sword and trampling upon Satan.
The awards for the Boer War were:
|
GCMG |
KCMG |
CMG |
Total |
|
4 |
13 |
198 |
213 |
GCMG
KCMG
CMG
