Star of South Africa (military decoration)

The Star of South Africa was a South African military decoration that was in use from 1952 to 1975. It was awarded to senior military officers, for exceptionally meritorious service.

History
The decoration formed part of the series of military decorations introduced by the South African government in April 1952. It was formally instituted by Queen Elizabeth II on 26 January 1953. In effect, it took the place of the Commander of the Order of the British Empire, which had been awarded to senior South African officers during World War II. It was named after the first large diamond to be found in South Africa.

Criteria
The Star of South Africa was awarded to officers of the South African Defence Force, for exceptionally meritorious service in peace or war. In practice, it was conferred only on officers of general or flag rank.

Description
The decoration consists of eight five-pointed silver stars, of different sizes,which are superimposed on each other. The reverse displays the South African coat of arms. Those minted before 31 May 1961 have Queen Elizabeth II's royal cipher above the coat of arms.

The SSA was worn around the neck, on a 44mm wide orange ribbon with three green stripes.

Recipients
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