Victoria Cross

Victoria Cross Collection - W. Britain

The Victoria Cross is the highest award for bravery in the British Honors system. It is awarded in recognition for valor in the face of the enemy and can be awarded to members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces of any rank in any service, and even civilians under military command.

The first VC's were issued on January 29, 1856, to recognize acts of valor during the Crimean War of 1854 - 1856.

To date 1,355 VC's have been awarded.