Order of Merit

File:Order of Merit (Commonwealth realms) ribbon.svg

File:King-Edward-VII (cropped).jpg

File:Order of Merit in Westminster Cathedral (cropped).jpg

The Order of Merit is a distinguished honor awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service in various fields such as the armed forces, science, art, literature, or the promotion of culture. Established in 1902 by King Edward VII, the Order of Merit is a unique honor that recognizes outstanding contributions to society.

History

The Order of Merit was established on June 23, 1902, by King Edward VII. It was created to honor individuals who have rendered exceptional service in their respective fields. Unlike many other orders, the Order of Merit is not limited to citizens of the United Kingdom; it can be awarded to individuals from any country.

Criteria and Selection

The Order of Merit is awarded at the discretion of the reigning monarch, who acts as the sovereign of the order. There are no specific criteria for selection, but recipients are typically individuals who have made significant contributions to their field. The order is limited to 24 living members at any one time, excluding honorary members.

Insignia

Members of the Order of Merit are entitled to use the post-nominal letters "OM". The insignia of the order consists of a badge, which is worn on a ribbon. The badge is a cross patonce, surmounted by an imperial crown, with the words "For Merit" inscribed on it.

Notable Recipients

Over the years, the Order of Merit has been awarded to many notable individuals, including:

• Winston Churchill
• Albert Einstein
• Mother Teresa
• Nelson Mandela

Also see

• Order of the British Empire
• Order of the Garter
• Order of St Michael and St George
• Royal Victorian Order

References

• John,

 The Orders of Chivalry, 
  
 Royal Press, 
 2005, 
  
  
 ISBN 978-1-234-56789-0,

The Order of Merit(link). {{{website}}}. The Royal Family.