United Kingdom. A British War and Meritorious Service Medal to Sjt. Paterson, A.S.C

A Meritorious Service Medal, in silver, full size, rim impressed M2-153394 MECH. S. MJB. H.G.C. PATERSON R.A.S.C., 

A British War Medal, in silver, full size, rim impressed M2-153394 S. SJT. H.J.C. PATERSON. A.S.C., light contact, rust residue from staple in ribbon, very fine. 

Footnote: The Medal Rolls confirm Staff Sergeant Henry Gordon (Jordon) Campbell Paterson was awarded the Army Meritorious Service, along with the British War Medal and Victory Medal. 

The Army Meritorious Service Medal was instituted by Queen Victoria on December 19, 1845, to reward Non Commissioned Officers of the rank of sergeant or above of the army for distinguished or meritorious service. In 1916, the Silver Medal was extended to immediately award exceptionally valuable and meritorious service. A clasp was also introduced to reward subsequent acts of gallantry or life-saving. The Medal was once again extended in 1917 to also recognize individual acts of gallantry not in the face of enemies. The Army Meritorious Service Medal ceased to reward acts of gallantry in 1928 following the introduction of the Gallantry British Empire Medal.