The medal commemorates service during the period just before and after the creation of the independent Dominion of Pakistan on 14 August 1947.

Most recipients were members of the armed forces of Pakistan, including attached British personnel.

The obverse has the Royal cypher of King George VI surrounded by the inscription GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OMN:REX.

The reverse shows the flag of Pakistan surrounded by a wreath, with inscriptions in Urdu above and below.

The 1.25 in (32 mm) ribbon is dark green with a narrow central stripe of white, the colours on the flag of Pakistan.