The General Service Medal with Malay Peninsula Clasp was awarded for 30 days service ashore

while the Air Force Cross was awarded to officers

Probably the single most important medal in British medallic history

Historically

Military hat

Air Force Medal GVI Emergency Services Long Service The General Service Medal withThe Air Force Medal (AFM) GVI was awarded to non commissioned members of the Royal Air Force and other qualifying Commonwealth air forces in recognition of courage, exceptional skill and devotion to duty whilst flying on non operational service. Instituted in 1918 alongside the Air Force Cross, the Air Force Medal served as the equivalent decoration for non commissioned personnel, recognising acts of bravery and outstanding airmanship outside active