Burma Star

The Burma Star covers qualifying service from 11 December 1941 to 2 September 1945. It recognizes service connected with the Burma campaign in the Far East. [National Archives guidance](https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/help-with-your-research/research-guides/merchant-seamen-campaign-medal-records-1939-1945/)

Army service in Burma was central to the award, while naval and Merchant Navy rules used a defined area of the Bay of Bengal. Some provisions also covered parts of Bengal, Assam, China, and Malaya depending on the service and date.

The Fourteenth Army conducted major Allied operations in Burma, where jungle terrain, monsoon conditions, disease, and difficult supply routes shaped the campaign. The Burma Star therefore represents one of World War II's most demanding land theatres.

The Burma Star was tied to the Burma campaign and its specified support areas, while the Pacific Star covered broader Pacific, South China Sea, and Indian Ocean service. A person could qualify for both, but award and clasp rules controlled how they were worn.