The Victoria Cross

The Victoria Cross is the highest award for gallantry that can be given to a British or Commonwealth serviceman or woman. It is awarded for acts of extreme bravery carried out under enemy fire. The medal was first created in 1856 and is still given out, most recently for bravery in Afghanistan.

During the First World War, 632 medals were awarded, which is more than in any other war. The medal is made of bronze in a deliberately simple design. The metal comes from cannons captured during the Crimean War.