Victoria Cross

The Victoria Cross was introduced on 29 January 1856 by Queen Victoria.

Prince Albert created the design of the cross, with Queen Victoria adding the laurel leaves to the bar. It is the highest British and Commonwealth military decoration that can be awarded to military and civilian personnel under military command, for acts of outstanding valour in the face of the enemy.

In 1967, Canada, followed in 1975 by Australia and New Zealand, developed their own national honours systems. The Victoria Cross for Australia, the Canadian Victoria Cross and the Victoria Cross for New Zealand were created and named in honour of the Victoria Cross. They are unique awards of each honours system recommended, assessed, gazetted, and presented by each country.

During the Second World War, from 3rd Sept. 1939 to 15th Aug. 1945, thirty-one British and Commonwealth aircrew were awarded the Victoria Cross. Nineteen of these were awarded posthumously.

Twenty-three were awarded to aircrew of RAF Bomber Command.

Four were awarded to aircrew of RAF Coastal Command.

One was awarded to aircrew of RAF Fighter Command.

One was awarded to aircrew of RAF Transport Command.

Two were awarded to aircrew of Fleet Air Arm, Royal Navy.

This display shows one of each type of aircraft flown during WW2 where a member of the crew was awarded the Victoria Cross. It is a tribute to all who gallantly and courageously put their life on the line to ensure freedom and peace for all.