The British and Commonwealth Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) is awarded to "other ranks" (warrant officers, non-commisioned officers and private soldiers) in any branch of military service for acts of gallantry. It was instituted on December 4, 1854 during the Crimean War. It is second only to the Victoria Cross as an award for gallantry and ranks above the Military Medal.
In Australia there have been 2080 awards of the DCM in all conflicts since the Boer War.
