In both World Wars, Muslims were recognised with decorations for their bravery and valour in combat.

30% of African Distinguished Conduct Medals were awarded to Nigerian Muslims. 6 of the 42 African Distinguished Conduct Medals were awarded to Muslims.

Hundreds of military awards were won by Muslims.

Khudadad Khan VC was the first non-white person to be awarded the Victoria Cross in 1914 . He was a Muslim who came from Chakwal in present-day Pakistan. Altogther 7 Muslims have been awarded the Victoria Cross, the last one being received by Sepoy Ali Haider in 1945. They are listed on our Victoria Cross page.

In total, 6 George Crosses were awarded to Muslims, They are listed on our George Cross page and include Captain Mateen Ansari GC in 1946 who despite brutal torture, mutilation and starvation at the hands of his Japanese captors, refused to renounce his allegiance to the British and was beheaded by the Japanese.

In World War Two, Noor Inayat Khan GC was the first female wireless operator sent by Britain to assist the French resistance in 1943. She was executed at Dachau concentration camp in 1944. She was awarded the George Cross in 1949 and the French Croix de Guerre. She was tortured by the Germans but never gave up any secret information.