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 prestigious award could be bestowed after ten years of outstanding service to officers, airmen, and airwomen in various British Commonwealth air forces, including those in the UK, Dominions, India, and colonies.