The South African
by G. R. DUXBURY
The amended regulations make provision for a ribbon 1.25 inches in width of sky blue with a vertical dark blue stripe 4 inch in width in the centre thereof. The dark blue stripe is flanked by white stripes 1/16 inch in width which in turn are flanked with orange stripes each 1/16 inch in width.
The ribbon formerly consisted of 11 narrow vertical stripes of dark blue, orange and white in that order from left to right or right to left.
The Pro Merito Medal was instituted on 6 June, 1967 for award to Other Ranks in time of peace or war, "for outstanding devotion to duty". Previously Other Ranks were eligible for the award of the Southern Cross Medal but an amendment to the regulations on 14 July, 1967 restricted its award to officers.
The Pro Merito Medal is in silver and is 1.5 inches in diameter. On its obverse in relief is an enamelled Disa flower encircled by a wreath of Protea flowers. On the reverse, also in relief, the embellished Coat of Arms of South Africa.
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