“The premier Operational Gallantry award given 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’.” The Ministry of Defence defines the VC as: Technically, the VC may also be awarded to those in the Merchant Marine or civilians who display outstanding bravery whilst temporarily serving under British military or Merchant Marine command. Some Commonwealth nations have their own version of the VC, while some others still use the British honours system.

The VC can be awarded to those of any rank who display outstanding devotion to duty and/or courage whilst serving with British, or Commonwealth, forces. These are the highest awards for gallantry displayed during combat and are therefore very close equivalents.

While there are many ways in which Britain and the US honour their Armed Forces personnel, the most prestigious must be the awarding of two medals: the Victoria Cross (VC) and the Medal of Honor (MOH.)

What benefits do medal of honor get