Soldier wins Victoria Cross for bravery in Iraq

[MrsBigD]

I think it's great that Private Johnson Beharry's role is being appreciated adn acknowledged.

However, I do have a silly question, not being British and hence not all that familiar with the medals handed out...

I thought the VC is only handed out for bravery in war times? Last time I checked it's wasn't a war down there... or is it military personnel get the VC and civilians get the GC?

[MrsBigD]

p.s. you're probably going to call me a terrible cynic but I thought it felt a bit like a publicity stunt in run up to the elections and as justification why the UK is still in Iraq...

Not trying to diminish what private J has done, just felt it the way it all is portraied.

[SoupDragon]

to quote:

It is ordained that the Cross shall only be awarded for most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy. (although from 1858 to 1881 an amendment allowed for awards "under circumstances of extreme danger" '

so I guess it counts.

[SoupDragon]

And it s a military medal although five civilians have also been awarded the VC (while under military command)

\link{http://www.victoriacross.net/Victoriacross.net}

[SoupDragon]

Victoriacross.net even

[MrsBigD]

thanks SD, was just a bit confused especially as DH (ex forces) insisted that it's only in times of war ;)