About Us
What We’re Passionate About...
We’re a UK-based society with members around the world who share a love of researching (and collecting) orders, decorations and medals—and, above all, remembering the people who originally received them.
OMRS is a members-only society, run by elected volunteers from within the membership. Our constitution and by-laws help keep everything running smoothly—and focused on what matters: supporting members and their research.
Our aims are simple:
- To spark and support interest in orders, decorations and medals and everything connected to them.
- To help members with their research and share practical guidance.
- To publish and share findings, especially members’ original research, whenever we can.
- To carry out any lawful activities that help the Society achieve these objectives.
A Journey of Discovery
A Quick History of OMRS
Explore our journey as we highlight key moments that shaped our community. From our humble beginnings to the significant achievements we’ve made along the way.
1942 - OMRS Formed
The Orders, Decorations and Medals Research Society of Great Britain was formed by four enthusiasts who had been meeting informally since 1939.
1943 - Circular Produced
A typewritten circular was produced for all members.
1949 - Meeting Begin
Meetings began at the Imperial War Museum in London.
1950 - New Membership Increases
Membership reached 123.
1958 - The circular became the Journal
The circular became the Journal, and the Society’s name was shortened.
1967 - Silver Jubilee
Silver Jubilee, with membership at 350.
1971 - Membership Reaches 500
Membership reached 500 and the first branch was established (the Northern Branch).
1977 - Membership Keeps Growing
Membership grew to 1,000+.
1978 - First Annual Convention
The first annual convention was held at the Cumberland Hotel in London.
1985 - Membership Grows Further
Membership grew to 2,000+.
1992 - Golden Jubilee.
Golden Jubilee.
2002 - Diamond Jubilee.
Diamond Jubilee.
Ready to Get Involved
If you have a keen interest in researching or collecting orders and medals, you’re very welcome to apply for membership we’d love to have you.
Ready to get involved? Explore membership on our ‘Join Us’ page, and join a community brought together by research, collecting, and the stories behind the awards.