The Victoria Cross was introduced on 29 Jan 1856 by Queen Victoria to reward acts of valour during the Crimean War. The Victoria Cross is the highest military decoration which is awarded for valour "in the face of the enemy" to members of the armed forces of various Commonwealth countries, and previous British Empire territories. It takes precedence over all other orders, decorations and medals. It may be awarded to a person of any rank in any service and civilians under military command.

In the United Kingdom, it is usually presented to the recipient or their next of kin, by the British monarch during an investiture held at Buckingham Palace. In those Commonwealth countries where the British monarch is the head of state, the Governor-General usually fulfils the same function. It is the joint highest award for bravery in the United Kingdom with the George Cross, which is the equivalent honour for valour not in the face of the enemy. However, the VC is higher in the order of wear and would be worn first by an individual who had been awarded both decorations (which has not so far occurred).

Lt Charles Grant (Later Col)
12 Madras Native Infantry

After the defeat at Manipur in April 1891, Lt Charles Grant (Later Col) of 12 Madras Native Infantry, volunteered to attempt the relief of the British captives. Inspiring his men with his personal example, the officer captured Thobal (Manipur) and held it against a large force of the enemy.

For this act of valour and devotion in the face of the enemy, the officer was awarded Victoria Cross. The Victoria Cross is publicly displayed at National Army Museum (Chelsea, England)

Capt (Later Maj) Herbert Mackworth Glogstoun
19 Madras Native Infantry
15 January 1859 - Chichumbah (India)

On 15 January 1859 at Chichumbah, India, Captain Glogstoun charged onto the rebels with only eight men of 19 Madras Native Infantry Regiment, compelling them finally to abandon their plunder. He was severely wounded himself and lost seven out of the eight men who accompanied him.

For this act of valour and devotion in the face of the enemy, the officer was awarded Victoria Cross. The Victoria Cross is publicly displayed at National Army Museum (Chelsea, England). On 06 May 1862, the officer was killed in action at Hingoli, India.