It could be awarded after ten years of meritorious service to officers, airmen and airwomen in the Auxiliary and Volunteer Air Forces of the United Kingdom and the Territorial Air Forces and Air Force Reserves of the Dominions, the Indian Empire, Burma, the Colonies and Protectorates.
A notable honor could be conferred after ten years of exceptional service to officers, airmen, and airwomen serving in various British Commonwealth air forces, encompassing those in the UK, Dominions, India, and colonies.