Supreme Courage: Heroic stories from 150 Years of the Victoria Cross

The most inspiring stories of VC winners since the medal's inception 150 years ago. Features medal-winners from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, India and Denmark; and updated to include the story of Private Johnson Beharry, who was awarded the VC in March 2005.

Since 1854 the Victoria Cross has been the highest award for gallantry in the British Armed Forces. It bears the simple legend 'For Valour', but behind it are thrilling and ultimately humbling tales of unimaginable bravery. SUPREME COURAGE tells the tales of some of those who have won the medal, bringing this badge of honour alive with breath-taking accounts of courage in action. Visiting battle-scenes across the globe, peppering his accounts with letters and first-hand accounts, Sir Peter de la Billi re uncovers not just heroism but the hearts and minds of men. With his accounts of Australians, Canadians, New Zealanders, Indians and the Gurkhas, Sir Peter de la Billi re does more than accompany the man into battle. He reveals their backgrounds, the climate of their times, what it was that drove them on, and the price of fame - the burden of expectation in civilian life that accompanied more than one recipient to a pauper's grave.
Extraordinary and intensely moving, SUPREME COURAGE is a thrilling addition to the literature of war, and a unique and magnificent monument to heroism.