A similar decoration to the Victoria Cross, called the Order of Merit,
is given to native officers and men of the Indian Army, for personal
bravery only. It is an eight-pointed star, having, on a blue enamelled
ground, two crossed swords, surmounted by the words “Reward of Valour,”
within a gilt laurel wreath. It is divided into three classes: the
first, or senior star is gold; the second silver; and the third also
silver, without the gilding. Ribbon: dark blue, with red edges. The
third class is to be obtained by any conspicuous act of gallantry on the
part of any native officer or soldier in the field, or in the attack or
defence of fortified places. The second class is to be obtained by those
only who already possess the third, and for similar services. The first
class is to be obtained in like manner, only by those who already
possess the third and second classes. Every member of the Order of Merit
is entitled to additional pay, and on his death his widow receives this
allowance for three years.