What does OBE mean after a British name?
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What does OBE mean after a British name?
Officer of the Order of the British Empire
Like a CBE, an OBE is an order of the British Empire award. It is the second highest ranking Order of the British Empire award, behind CBE but ahead of MBE. It stands for Officer of the Order of the British Empire (as opposed to Commander for a CBE and Member for an MBE).
Can an OBE be called sir?
While a CBE, OBE and MBE are some of the top ranking honours, only the top two ranks can use the title “Sir” or “Dame”. People awarded a GBE, KBE or DBE can use these titles. The very top rank in the Order is a GBE – a Knight or Dame Grand Cross – but these are very rare. Since 2000, only 16 have been given out.
How would you address a Dame of the British Empire?
Dames
- In speech. Formally addressed and referred to as ‘Dame Mary’.
- In writing – formally. Dear Madam. Yours faithfully. Envelope: Dame Mary Smythe, DBE (or applicable Order)
- In writing – socially. Dear Dame Mary. Yours sincerely. Envelope: Dame Mary Smythe, DBE (or applicable Order) Spouse of a Dame.
What’s the difference between an OBE and MBE?
In order, lowest to highest, the three awards are: M.B.E.: Member of the British Empire. O.B.E : Officer of the British Empire. C.B.E.: Commander of the British Empire.
Do you have to be British to get an OBE?
Any British national or citizen of the 15 Commonwealth realms can be nominated for honours in the British honours system. This ensures that people who aren’t in the public eye are recognised for service and contribution to their respective fields.
How many OBE are there?
The Order is limited to 300 knights and dames grand cross, 845 knights and dames commander, and 8,960 commanders. There are no limits applied to the total number of members of the fourth and fifth classes, but no more than 858 Officers and 1,464 Members may be appointed per year.