David Lock

Can someone provide the lowdown on the various honours that are given out i.e. MBE, CBE, OBE please?

Which is the higher honour and what are the differences?

I think it's slightly surprising that no PC nerd has kicked up a fuss about them still being linked to the British Empire

Still waiting for mine dl

Simon C

Youi got them in order David, its

MBE (Member of the British Empire)
CBE???
OBE (Order of the British Empire)

An ex's father was an OBE, awarded for services during Desert Storm, (Col. in the Army). 1 of the perks of this is his daughter can get married in the crypt of St Pauls Cathedral.

PeteBrant

From lowest to highest:

MBE (Member)
OBE (officer)
CBE (Commander)
KBE (Knight-Commander)
GBE (Knight grand cross)

David Lock

Thanks Simon,

With a "K" being on the top I guess

I think CBE is Commander??

I had wondered if they were linked to disciplines e.g. an MBE for services to business and a CBE for sport or charity but it's clear this is not the case.

There used to be a BEM - British Empire Medal? Is this still being minted?

David


Edit - Thanks Pete, message crossed in the ether

PeteBrant

Order of the Garter is the one to aim for

Simon C

Isn't that the 1 where there are only 20 in existance at any 1 time?

PeteBrant

Not sure if there only ever 20 at one time - wouldn't surprise me. It is the highest ranked honour one can receive, though.

David Lock

List of current members of the Order of the Garter - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Miniman

iTrader: (2)

My Dad is an OBE, we decided not to get married in St Pauls (hard to fill with guests). But we are considering driving our sheep across London Bridge :-)

They are linked to "for services for". So they aren't just given to famous people, for example there are a lot now, given to the ordinary public like nurses or families who have fostered hundreds of kids. While sport and celebrity bring in their own awards, these other people often work tirelessly with no sort of award and it's fitting that they are honoured for the work they do.

They are less about the British Empire now, but there will be a smattering of awards at each ceremony for governors and soldiers (and other old boys type networks).

Chris L

My other half's Uncle got an OBE this year - I shall mention the sheep driving the next time I see him :-)

MattW

And this is what devalues the honours, when people on scoobynets other halfs uncles get it.

David Lock

My late step-dad was offered a knighthood for services to engineering. But he was an old fashioned chap and very religious and turned it down. I only found this out years later when mum told me. I think she would have liked the idea of being Lady Mum

HankScorpio

Good info on here:
What is the British Honours system?

Leslie

Thanks for that-interesting.

Les