George Cross.
The George Cross was Instituted by Royal Warrant on
September 24th 1940.
King George VI had been greatly moved by the fortitude and courage displayed by many civilians and by those engaged in Bomb Disposal duties during the blitz, and wanted these outstanding acts of bravery to be recognised.Many awards existed already such as the Empire Gallantry Medal, the Albert Awards for Saving Life on Land and Sea, also the Edward medal for Mines and Industry. But none matched the distinction of the Victoria Cross (VC).
Therfore the King and his advisors created a new decoration to be the equivalent in status of the VC.
The existing Empire Gallantry Medal, was abolished those awarded this decoration both surviving and posthumous, since the wars begining had them exchanged for the new George Cross.
