The Victoria Cross is the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy. All who have received it have shown conspicous bravery many at the cost of their own lives.
The original idea for the Victoria Cross was proposed by the Duke of Newcastle in 1854 and the Royal Warrant for the creation of the medal was eventually signed by Queen Victoria at Buckingham Palace on 29th January 1856. The first investiture took place in June 1857 in Hyde Park, where crowds gathered to witness the Queen, mounted on horseback, presenting medals to sailors and soldiers.