Only Royal Marines who have achieved the rank of Sergeant or above and who have demonstrated irreproachable character and meitorious conduct all theriughbthier careers are recommended for the Meritorious Service Medal.

Since its inr=troduction in 1849, those men who have recieved the award are the exceptional senior Non-Commissioned Officers who form the very backbone of the Corps.

For the first time a complete roll of these Sergeants has been compiled together with biographical notes of many who ghave distinguished and gallant service, but with the passage of time have been largely forgotten. A picture emerges of dedication and service that is to the credit of the Royal Marines. 182 photographs provide a pictorial history of the uniforms, badges and medals these men wore.