The Bomber Command Clasp (which is worn on the 1939-45 Star) recognises those who between 3 September 1939 and 8 May 1945 (VE Day) who:

a. Served as aircrew on a Bomber Command operational unit for at least 60 days, or completed a tour of operations; and

b. Flew at least one operational sortie.

Note 1: The above criteria mean that eligible personnel will have already qualified for the 1939-45 Star.

Note 2: Special Cases – The clasp will usually also be issued in respect of Bomber Command aircrew who do not meet the above qualifying criteria but:

(1) had their service brought to an end by death, wounds or other disability due to service; or

(2) received a gallantry award for their Bomber Command service; or

(3) were taken as a Prisoner of War.

It is unfortunate that since the time of VE day in 1945, where Churchill failed to acknowledge the heroic sacrifices of the Bomber Command, successive British Governments have steadfastly and politically refused to give medallic recognition through the issue of a separate medal for the Royal Air Force and Commonwealth Air Forces. 

By comparison the Arctic convoys were finally recognised, through persistant lobbying with the issue of the Arctic Star in March 2013.