General Service Medal 1962-2007, with clasp for 'Northern Ireland', awarded to Guardsman Richard G Stokes, Grenadier Guards

Circular silver medal with the crowned effigy of Queen Elizabeth II and the inscription, 'Elizabeth II Dei Gratia Regina F.D.', on the obverse. On the reverse, the inscription, 'For Campaign Service'. The rim is impressed with the recipient's name and service number. The medal ribbon is purple with green edges.

The recipient of this medal was the first black guardsman. Born on 16 December 1969, Stokes joined the Army in September 1986 as a Junior Leader. During his service he was posted to Bally Kelly in Northern Ireland (1987-1988), Kenya (1988), Canada (1989) and Caterham, Surrey (1988-1990). He also took part in many ceremonial occasions including Trooping the Colour. Stokes was the first black guardsman to take part in the Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace. He left the Army as a Guardsman in December 1990 after suffering racist taunts and abuse.