The George Cross (GC) medal is the highest civil decoration that is given in the UK and is equivalent to receiving the Victoria Cross for civilians. It is given to civilians and military members who show extreme acts of gallantry that are not executed in war times or without a physical enemy present.
It was first created on September 24th, 1940 by King George VI during the Blitz when he felt that there was no award available for citizens who showed civilian gallantry in the face of the Blitz.
Bars can be received on the GC medal if a civilian places themselves in extreme danger more than once with a higher cause but to date no one is yet to receive a first bar. Since it has been created only there have only been 86 who have received it posthumously and 73 people who received it within their lifetime.
As it is the highest ranking honor that can be received in the UK those who are awarded it also receive an annuity of £1,495 per year.
The most recent recipient of the George Cross was Matthew Croucher in July 23, 2008 for throwing himself on a grenade in Afghanistan saving many of his fellow marine’s lives as well as civilians.
