Mini Medals

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

There is a world of difference between wearing medals with civilian attire and when in uniform. The reason for this is the variance in cut for the different styles of civilian jackets. Because of this, the following guidelines, for civilian attire, are generally followed:

FULL SIZE MEDALS (DAY WEAR ONLY):

The top of the medal bar to be approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch below the notch of the lapel. The right hand edge of the medal group to be 1/2 to 3/4 inch from the inside edge of the lapel. Three (or fewer) medals to be centered on the lapel, 1/2 to 3/4 inch below the notch of the lapel.

MINIATURE MEDALS (EVENING WEAR ONLY):

The same spacing as for full size, except in the case of three (3) or fewer medals, in which case they should be centered on the lapel 1/2 to 3/4 inch below the notch of the lapel.

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This applies to civilian wear only. If one is in full uniform than he/she should respect the regulations of their branch of service and wear their medals accordingly. It is, incidentally, wrong (and against regulations) for former service personal to wear their service uniform jacket (or mess dress jacket) with their kilt as part of civilian attire.

Service ribbons should not be worn with civilian attire, except as part of a uniform (pipe bands, colour guards, Scottish American Military Society, etc. and then in strict accordance with their regulations). Generally speaking Masonic insignia should not be worn to other than Masonic events, again, in accordance with appropriate Grand Lodge regulations.