Sometimes these are misleadingly known as ‘campaign’ medals. Which actually refer to medals that were awarded for participating in a particular series of military operations in a certain area with a defined goal. However, these were not awarded in the First World War and are more relevant to medals from other wars such as the Boer or Second World War. Who might have been awarded them? The Service Medals were awarded to the servicemen and women who met the criteria. An individual could earn between one and four, but usually received two or three. Why were people awarded Service Medals? Medals have been awarded to commemorate wars and battles throughout history dating back to the Roman Empire. First World War Service Medals indicate that the individual served Britain overseas during the war during a particular period or in a particular role. Other types of medals include those awarded for bravery, long service, or a specific type of work.