Object Focus The Elizabeth Cross

The Elizabeth Cross

The Elizabeth Cross is granted to the next of kin of Armed Forces personnel killed on operations or as a result of terrorism in a mark of national recognition for their loss. It is the first award to be given the name of a reigning monarch since the George Cross in 1940.

It is not just granted to families who have lost loved ones in recent operations. The Queen's recognition is also available to the families of those who died in conflicts dating back to 1948, including the Malayan Emergency, Korean War, the Falklands Conflict and operations in Northern Ireland.

A specimen copy of the Elizabeth Cross is on display in the Museum of the Manchester Regiment. Anyone interested in learning more should contact the Museum’s Curator on 0161 342 2254.