#London #United Kingdom #National Army Museum #Victoria Crosses #George Crosses

Lord Ashcroft's Medal Collection Finds a New Home

Lord Ashcroft’s remarkable collection of Victoria Crosses (VCs) and George Crosses (GCs), recognized as the largest of its kind in the world, is set to be displayed at the National Army Museum in London. This prestigious collection has taken over 40 years to assemble, containing nearly 250 VCs along with a select number of GCs.

Previously, the collection was hosted at the Imperial War Museum, which closed the Lord Ashcroft Gallery after 15 years of showcasing these esteemed medals. The transition to the National Army Museum marks an exciting new chapter for both the collection and the museum, which has a rich history of preserving and sharing narratives related to military service.

Lord Ashcroft expressed his excitement, stating, “I am thrilled to have found such a superb location for this unique collection of gallantry medals. I am so pleased that these VCs and GCs, spanning many major wars and conflicts of the past two centuries, will now be enjoyed by the public once again.” His commitment to sharing these medals and the accompanying stories of bravery showcases a lifelong dedication to honoring military heroes.

The Director of the National Army Museum, Justin Maciejewski, acknowledged the significance of the collection, expressing gratitude for Lord Ashcroft’s generosity. He noted, “We are honored to be entrusted with these VCs and GCs… These medals form a powerful part of the Army's story.” The National Army Museum, known for its broad historical context related to military service, will now present these distinguished decorations among its extensive array of collections.

Chris Finney, a Trustee of the National Army Museum and Chair of the VC and GC Association, highlighted the collection’s diversity, stating that it represents centuries of extraordinary bravery across the Armed Forces. This partnership will allow for the sharing of these medals and their inspiring personal stories with visitors and online audiences, ensuring that the legacy of valor continues to inspire future generations.

Lord Ashcroft’s journey in collecting started back in 1986 with the acquisition of a single medal group at auction. The Victoria Cross, established by Queen Victoria in 1856, honors valour in combat, while the George Cross, created by King George VI in 1940, recognizes acts of bravery not in direct conflict. Among the collection are extraordinary examples, including one of only three VCs and Bars awarded in the last 170 years, presented to Captain Noel Chavasse, a medical officer honored for his service during the First World War.

Visitors can expect to see some of Lord Ashcroft’s medals on display at the National Army Museum starting this July, along with pop-up exhibitions leading to a more permanent exhibit that will be opened following the preparations over the next two years. The museum aims to present these items alongside their existing collections to represent the military's heritage, including the historical context of the Victoria Cross from the Crimean War.

Ultimately, this collaboration serves as a platform to tell stories of heroism through the lens of military decorations, creating educational resources, exhibitions, talks, and digital content that delve into the human narratives tied to these storied decorations.

As plans unfold for this captivating new exhibit, the anticipation builds for audiences eager to witness the awe-inspiring tales behind the medals. For updates, interested individuals can follow Lord Ashcroft and the National Army Museum through their respective social media platforms and websites.

In conclusion, the relocation of Lord Ashcroft’s collection to the National Army Museum signifies a commitment to preserving history and inspiring future generations through the courageous tales of those who have served in the Armed Forces. This partnership is poised to enrich the cultural narrative surrounding military bravery and sacrifice, ensuring that these stories remain a vibrant part of public consciousness for years to come.