Merchant Navy Medal Entitlement

[Neeta68]

It appears from the attached document that my Grandfather was entitled to 2 medals from WW1 but it looks as if they weren't issued. 

Can anyone tell me if this is the case and if I can now apply for them?

Many thanks in advance. 

[DavidOwen]

Welcome to the forum.

These medals had to be applied for, so the fact that such a medal card exists means that indeed had happened. Others may be able to comment on whether the card indicates the medals were issued or not (the ribbons certainly have been issued - and not returned). 

My experience of trying to obtain the same medals for a friend whose relative was killed in the war and the medals never claimed is that the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (now responsible for such medals) was that they were not interested in supplying ww1 medals as "the dies to make them have all been destroyed" (a fact the Royal Mint disputes).  Don't let that put you off though as it is just a matter of filling in the forms and providing the necessary identity documents.  Merchant Navy medals and honours - The National Archives

Good luck!

[Neeta68]

Many thanks for your help. Very interesting information.