American Army Veteran Reacts To "The Victoria Cross: For Valour - By Jeremy Clarkson"

[@JackulaHD]

1,358 VCs have been award compared to 3,512 Medals of Honour. While you may quote a difference in population to account for this, you have to remember that the VC is open to soldiers of both the UK AND the commonwealth. So not only are there far fewer VCs but the pool of eligible soldiers is many many times greater as the commonwealth has a population of 2.3 billion. This is why many people consider it to be the highest in the world as objectively it is far rarer. However, such comparisons are really in poor taste as frankly either of these mark a Hero.

[@antonyevans9772]

Very well put!

[@matthewwalker5430]

Absolutely, well said, although the VC is still better 😋 Joking aside, the VC has existed for much longer than the Medal of Honor (they even misspelt ‘Honour’ though!). Not only is the VC open to the Commonwealth as well as Britain, so the population comparison is valid, but the sheer amount of engagements Britain and Commonwealth countries have been involved in since its introduction is significantly more. That said, early on, VCs were won more frequently, so you could argue that with the Medal of Hono(u)r being younger they will become less frequently awarded over time also.

[@59jalex]

Plus, the US forces weren't involved until 1917 in WW1 and December 1941 in WW2.

[@JackulaHD]

@@matthewwalker5430 This is actually false. The Medal of Honor (giving it the American spelling this time) was first awarded on the 25th March 1863. This is just six years after the VC which was introduced Jan 1856 and first awarded in June 1857. So I would say they have had an equal amount of time. Your point about the number of engagements is an interesting one though. It is true that you could argue there have been more individual wars for the Commonwealth but the number of wars does not necessarily reflect the number of engagements. Especially as the US took on its world policing stance while the British Empire waned. I am not saying you're wrong only that it is one I would be interested to see actual data on. Regardless though the difference in number of engagements would also not necessarily reflect the opportunities for medals as an engagement could be a single soldier accidentally firing over the border, or an engagement could be something like Arnhem or the siege of Stalingrad. I think it matters more the number of meaningful engagements with the requisite intensity to birth VC/MoH opportunities.

[@JackulaHD]

@@59jalex Yes this is true but a counterpoint is that you don't need a specific war to have opportunities to win a medal. For example the US as we know would have a massive advantage over the commonwealth for medals awarded in Vietnam or Korea. Also while they were involved later in ww2 they awarded 3 times as many MoHs as the commonwealth awarded VCs. With 473 MoH in WW2 compared to just 181. This is reversed for WW1 tbf.

[@stuartcook8823]

The Dutch children, even to this day, are still allocated a grave every year to tend. They've never forgotten.

[@loopielou4426]

wow. That is amazing to know.

[@howey935]

The flower girls. Each village girl was allocated a grave of an allied soldier to tend. We met one when we visited the cemetery in Oosterbeek. She was 83 and still tending the grave she was allocated. She told us the Dutch people were very greatful for the help from the allies and the least they could do was honour the young men who gave their lives. She was called Marieke and she was a really sweet old lady and told us she enjoyed talking to us.

[@karlennis3642]

As 🇦🇺🇳🇿 Much ❤️

[@barbaraaimson2100]

My dad in ww2 was in holland, they were in the basement of the burgermeisters house. He told us many stories, 1 was an easter 1. No one had money or much food but the lady of the house boiled them eggs and stuck a coin of queen willemina on each. Sorry for any spelling errors.

[@loopielou4426]

@@barbaraaimson2100 Thank you for sharing this story

[@whovianhistorybuff]

Little fact: the Victoria Cross was originally going to have the words "For Bravery" on it but queen Victoria struck that down saying "ALL my soldiers are brave" hence why they changed it to "For Valour"

[@anitagovan66]

My father was a Gurkha at the tip end of WWII. He never really spoke of his experiance His victory was to live the remainder of his life, in a positive, useful service of others in honour of those who didn't make it. I am grateful to have known such a man.

[@Roz-y2d]

Thank you for telling us. And an huge Thank you to your valiant father.🇬🇧🇳🇵

[@Realsovietholyman]

My Great Uncle was a Royal Canadian Paratrooper,1 of 450 that jumped on D-day and later took part in the liberation of the Netherlands.

[@McKamikazeHighlander]

The Gurkhas are fearless b*stards and terrifying to the enemy. You must be extremely proud

[@markcollier765]

The Gurkha's are amazing, deserve so much respect..

[@shady8479]

Thank you to all who served ❤❤❤❤❤

[@jamescurrie7678]

No matter how many times I watch this I am always left humbled

[@SaintPhoenixx]

Definitely, I've watched it at least 10 times and it never fails to make me feel like a wimp. But in a way that leaves me with immense pride for these men, like it makes me glad that people like this were willing to fight so people like me could live in safety.

[@harryjohnson9215]

Same here

[@finkployd8684]

indeed

[@truckerfromreno]

Yes. I admire those brave and humble men so much.

[@grumpynanny7402]

Me too

[@meandwife4086]

It's things like this that makes me cry with pride. people can criticise Jeremy Clarkson till the cows come home but you can never question his commitment to the troops that put there lives on the line for our country

[@dirtbikerman1000]

Jeremy Clarksons next ww2 story like this is called the greatest raid and it is another spectacular story like this one. He really does know how to tell as a story

[@tridentuk6885]

it was a personal story as well.

[@ZondaFRoadster]

I loved his PQ17 Arctic Convoy story

[@WelshAmethystGirl087]

Yes please do this next it's one the best true story I've ever heard

[@angelabushby1891]

A Gurka won the VC in Helmond,Afghanistan,look for 1 man Army,and the old man with him is his Grandad who won VC in WW2

[@angelabushby1891]

SORRY THAT GURKA DIDNOT WIN THE VC IT WAS THE CONSPICUAS GALLENTRY MEDAL the second highest medal,but a Para did win the VC in Afghanistan

[@mike5d1]

I actually met a VC holder on Remembrance Day in Durham, His name was Captain Richard Annand. You are supposed to salute them without any prompting. We were given strict instruction not to do that to him because he did not like it. After his award, if anybody asked him what he had done, he would only say "I was bloody stupid!"

[@etherealhawk]

Even generals salute a VC holder. Credit where credit is due. Still, if they don't like the attention that's their call

[@populistrevolution5197]

Richard Annand is in thus video you can see him in the church with all the other VCs

[@mike5d1]

@@populistrevolution5197 Yes I know, I've watched the documentary and numerous reactions to it many times.

[@vebesese5632]

My granddad was as a hero as him. We don't need to distinguish. I carry the burden. With homelessness. You don't understand and pretend you do

[@mike5d1]

@@vebesese5632 where did that come from? What makes you think I only pretend to care?

[@Damien3210]

You need to follow this up with "The Greatest Raid of All Time"

[@webbsfan1]

Definitely.

[@necessaryevil3428]

What this guy says ☝️

[@johnkeil4286]

I ll watch

[@DruncanUK]

I'll vouch for this. It is a "must watch"!

[@martindunstan8043]

👍💯

[@L555HEP]

I don't care where you are from. Australia, New Zealand, A Gurkah, Canada, You are fucking loved. You made a difference, your bravery is the most important thing ever. You fought against evil

[@dee2251]

You also need to check out Sir Nicolas Winton, who saved 669 Jewish children from the Nazi death camps. He never told anyone, but got our somehow. Yrs later he went on to a tv show as a member of the audience, but he was being set up, because unknown to him, in the audience were many of those grown up children whose lives he saved. All these heroes are so humble. They don’t do it to seek the limelight.

[@howey935]

I used to live in Nijnegen and went to pay my respects at Oosterbeek. The cemetery is kept in tip top condition the grass is kept perfect and all the graves are well looked after. The Dutch really appreciated the help during WWII. When I lived in the Netherlands the people made me feel like one of their own.

[@keithrudd8003]

I go every year with my regimental veterans group, as the Glider Pilot Regiment, is the for runner to my Regiment… the service at Oosterbeek is something to behold, the flower children get me every year …

[@howey935]

@keith rudd 1 of the Dutch lads I worked with his great aunt was one of the flower girls.

[@joseph-ge5om]

I was stationed at RAF Laarbruch and we would spend many weekends in Nijmegen mainly because of the way we were treated the Dutch were so Friendly It is nice to see the old Astra cinema was turned into an RAF Museum Note i did the Battle of the Bulge Drive and Realised the reason the Germans lost was the siege of Bastone the germans were only 60 km from Antwerp

[@SeanHendy]

As has already been correctly stated, the Victoria Cross medals are made from the metal of a captured cannon from the Crimea. To this day it is held by the Army, in a storage depot, and because of its importance, does not go anywhere without considerable security. I should add at this point, that when I was born, my father was a SNCO in the British Army, and would attain the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He served from 1959 to 1998. At his dining out of the Army, by which time I had commissioned as a Lieutenant myself, I was invited to the event, in the Officer's Mess, at this same depot which had been our home for 8 years and of which Dad was then the commanding officer. A Major General was one of the guests, he and Dad had served together a number of times. As is customary, there were centre pieces on the tables, usually significant silverware of historic importance, and considerable valuable. On a plinth on the top table, in front of the general, was a half dome of solid metal, about the size of a small watermelon. The General in his speech, on the occasion of my Dad's retirement, after 39 years of service said, 'Ladies and gentleman, I would like to tell you that in front of me is a replica of the remains of the Crimean cannon, used to make the Victoria Cross. But I can't. I can't tell you it is a replica, because it is in fact THE actual remaining piece of the Crimean cannon used to make the Victoria Cross.' There was much applause to this announcement, and the significance of it. Unbeknownst to Dad, the General had made the considerable arrangements for it to be moved from its secure storage facilities, with additional armed security posted all around the Officer's Mess, to be able to honour my father in this most unique and special way. At the end of the dinner, we all filed past the top table, taking the opportunity to touch it as we left for the bar. One of the most incredible experiences of my life and a highlight of my 11 year career in the Army.

[@Sharon-bo2se]

The cannon was originally Chinese. The metal is tricky to work. The jewellers who make them are in Burlington Arcade in London; they have several unassigned but I believe there is only enough metal ro make another 80 or so. The requirements are stringent. The closest your country has is the Medal of Honour. The Purple Heart is merely for being wounded. The VC applies to the countries of the Empire and now the Commonwealth so a much larger population. Those who were awarded the VC were remarkable. There is a street in Winnipeg where 3 such were awarded to men in WWI and they lived within a very short distance to each other. Have a look at the Gurkhas if you have not done so already. Jeremy Clarkson did an excellent job on this documentary and the on about the Raid on St Nazaire. You should really watch that one!

[@davetooes6179]

@@Sharon-bo2sein NSW there is a Commerative Drive from Sydney to Canberra/ It is lined with trees with one for each soldier. Harder to see now with a National Freeway as the route has been bypassed. A similar Drive is in Saskatoon started in 1921.

[@leehannon1756]

That's a fantastic story, thoroughly jealous. Your father was seriously respected.

[@SeanHendy]

@@leehannon1756 Thank you for taking the time to comment. It was a fitting tribute for a man that had worked so hard for almost 4 decades. Thankfully he is still with us at the ripe age of 81 and enjoying a well deserved retirement.

[@richhowe7193]

Love him or hate him, Clarkson cannot be beaten on a military documentary

[@fossy4321]

love him.

[@TomFynn]

I recommend his doc on Isambart Kingdom Brunel.

[@andrzejplocki6438]

I think Clarkson is an absolute arse, but he’s superb at these things, bravo. 😅

[@alfredthegreat9543]

It's because he is an archetypal Englishman.

[@k9gonadz]

Its between him and al murry for me - the way they both talk about the events are amazing, cant get enough

[@judithdoughty7967]

If I'm right there's been 4 VC's awarded since this was made. 2004 - Johnson Beharry, Iraq. 2006 - Brian Budd, Afghanistan. 2012 - James Ashworth, Afghanistan and 2013 - Joshua Leakey, Afghanistan (Brian and James received their awards posthumously).

[@Westcountrynordic]

I've said the same Judith but posted before reading the other comments.

[@arwelp]

Also 5 awards of the Australian Victoria Cross (2 posthumously), and 1 of the New Zealand Victoria Cross (these, and the Canadian Victoria Cross, are now separate awards, though the Australian and New Zealand ones look exactly the same as the British one, the Canadian one looks the same except “for valour” is replaced by the Latin “pro valore” so that English isn’t advantaged over French). The Canadian one hasn’t been awarded since it was instituted.

[@colinmcintosh4284]

Corporal Ben Roberts. VC Afghanistan. Aussie soldier

[@etherealhawk]

How many medals of honour I wonder. I'm a brit btw

[@catzkeet4860]

​@@arwelpyep, NZ army Lance Corporal Willie Apiata was bestowed the NZVC in 2007 I believe. (for action in 2004)

[@rawschri]

When the veterans were interviewed by the film crews for the brilliant " Band of Brothers " mini-series, the film crews would arrive at their homes and find that many of their family members were present. Initially they just thought that the families had expected either Tom Hanks or Stephen Spielberg to be there .... they very soon came to realise that they were there to listen, because it was the first time their Father or Grandfather had spoken about their war-time experiences to any great degree ...

[@DaiElsan]

That comment reduced me to tears.

[@ChelseaPensioner-DJW]

My father went through WW2 as a soldier, on gunsites at 17, then through Europe and ended up in military government in Northern Germany, he didn't tell stories but would comment on things in war films, such as a scene in 'Anzio' were a young American soldier had killed a German in hand to hand combat, there came a moment when the young man had time to think, my Dad said he should start throwing up as it's not natural to kill another human and your body reacts to that. I was young at the time, but when I was older I realised he was talking from experience, ie: he told me not to put the chinstrap of my Action Man 'Tommy' under the chin as you could get strangled if someone came from behind, he called the German helmet a Coal Scuttle, years later two old soldiers on a documentary were talking about clearing out towns, street by street, house by house, they said "you'd come up behind a German grab the front rim of the 'coal scuttle', get your knee in the small of his back and pull back very sharply, breaking the Germans neck". That immediately reminded me of my Dads 'Action Man' advice. He became a driver for a Colonel which was another name for bodyguard, so things eventually slotted into place, like him teaching me self defence in our back garden at eight/nine years old and me wondering how my Dad knew all this stuff.

[@ryanhampson673]

I’m American but my grandfather on my dad’s side was British and fought in the Royal armored core as a radio operator/loader in a Sherman tank. When I was young he always told us about the fun times, what they did in Egypt for fun and tried to teach us some Italian. They used to paint numbers on the backs of scorpions and light a ring of fire and then bet on what one would win. One day when I was a bit older and he was visiting he just started talking about his real experience. He talked for probably 8 hours straight about everything. How his tanks around him would get shelled, how one time they called in for US air support and I’ll never forget what he said “ The damn yanks hit us.” Friendly fire took out most of his platoon. My dad had never even heard the stories. It was the only time he ever talked about it. He died a few years later.

[@vebesese5632]

Nah. Lie. We who had lived under knowing Nazis? Even as kids? You're a liar. And tour American. Which days much.

[@TezKingboom]

@@ryanhampson673 never call the yanks for arty support or an airstrike, best of asking where nearest commonwealth or british unit is to supply it or you gonna have blue on blue, lets not forget somehow the yanks shot down a british heli in Afghanistan or Iraq when the enemy didn't have anything that could fly

[@pbegley99]

One of the first recipients of a VC was Irishman Thomas Flynn. He was a 15 year old drummer boy in the 64th Regiment of Foot, was awarded his VC for bravery in action during the Indian Mutiny in 1857. Imagine a 15 year old doing stuff crazy enough to win a VC 😲

[@59jalex]

The very first VC was awarded to an Irish sailor. There is a slight confusion as to the date, but that has more to do with the "system" than the action.

[@warmstrong5612]

The "barrier to entry" as it were was lower in the beginning and got progressively higher as time went on though it was never easy to earn. So you can't quite compare the early and later recipients like for like.

[@mgytitanic1912]

Boy Cornwell on HMS Chester at Jutland was 15. He won a VC as he kept the gun in action, despite being mortally wounded and all other crew in the turret had been killed.

[@acidpunker1]

If it was 1857 then he was British

[@pbegley99]

@@acidpunker1 British is a nationality constructed from English, Scottish and Welsh nationalities. At the time he was a national of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, that was the legally constituted name of the state. Ireland was never officially considered to be Britain. Nowadays it is the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

[@neilperry2224]

The purple heart for being wounded in a battle. The Victoria Cross is awarded for the ultimate sacrifice, turning the wheel of a battle, to singularly protect fellow soldiers and to save them . Also, being a glider pilot was the riskiest job in the invasion of Europe, from Normandy to Netherlands/Holland. They reckon the glider pilots had a 3 out of 10 to survive a landing. The medal is cast from a captured Prussian cannon in the battle of the Crimea. My great grandfather served in the Crime and War and came home to the UK, its also believed to have served in the South African campaign. Thank you for your service and thank you for your respectful video on some of the bravest men we will ever know by story and heresy and articles in museums. There's is a private battle that still goes on within them. We salute them one and all. Peace brothers

[@TheDarkstormy]

Russian Cannon, not Prussian.

[@neilperry2224]

@@TheDarkstormy sorry I forgot for the moment, but in theory it's Chinese.

[@christopherstanley9997]

i think he just mispoke and meant the medal of honour, not the purple heart

[@davidclarke7122]

Two things to watch, movie "A Bridge Too Far" and The Greatest Raid documentary also by Jeremy Clarkson.

[@ScottyDog345]

They use to put jeeps in for American generals .This obviously made them heavy.The soldiers would be killed

[@yorkshirefazer]

i used to do deliveries a few years ago. one of my regulars was an elderly couple. very friendly and polite. really down to earth folk. went one day and the lady of the house was there but he wasn't. asked if he was ok? hospital visit maybe? was told he had passed a month or so prior. was mortified! his fantastic lady wasn't disturbed at all, but told me of what she found in his belongings after his passing. he had won the vc and not even mentioned it to his wife! i asked if i could hold it, and was granted the honour of having an awarded vc in my hands. without doubt the best (and possibly worst) day of my life. you cannot imagine the emotions i had then. to be fair i still struggle thinking about it 10 years+ after.

[@ralphraffles1394]

Some years ago, on a bench in a park in England, reading a book about Dday , a very old German guy sitting beside me leant across and said “I was there”. Surprisingly he had fought on the Allied side in the 51st Highland division.

[@loopielou4426]

wow

[@GloomGaiGar]

Did you ask him about it? Any stories?

[@JamieVauxnut1]

Theres a town not far from me in Scotland , there are 3 Victoria cross recipient's born there only streets apart including the youngest man to have earned the cross. Carluke also known as "a town called courage" has 3 crosses on the town sign as a badge of honour. A tiny town with a population of 13000 back after ww2 it was only half that . Makes me proud and i live 15 miles away , i have friends from Carluke and they dont even know what their own town represents for a lot of people

[@zobo999]

My wife's relative lieutenant Thomas Wilkinson was awarded the VC and its unfathomable to me the bravery shown. Thumbs up lads!

[@martyngray48]

Just a bit of info for you, the American unknown Soldier is awarded the VC, and our unknown soldiers is awarded your medal of honour.

[@Granny_Cat_Lady]

I've never watched your videos (I'm sorry) but my Hubby used to talk about you guys a lot ... He passed away in January 2023 & have been going through his stuff on our PC & stumbled across this ... I am "fortunate" enough to be the great-niece of a Victoria Cross holder

[@1AmSpeedy]

Love that there are some people reacting to this! Clarksons war stories are criminally unheard of and underrated

[@garytate3075]

You get a purple heart for being wounded, the VC is awarded primarily for acts of extreme gallantry and self sacrifice.

[@WeirRacing]

I think he meant medal of honor 🎖

[@susanhughs1031]

Gary Tate Channel Yes You Can Get A Perple Heart For Getting Shot In The Arss In The USA And If You Get Shot In The Arss In The UK You Get Laughed At, For NOT Keeping Your Arss/ Backside Down, !!! I Know This Is Ture Because My Own Uncle Got A 💜💜, For Braking His Hand Saving A US Generals Life,!!! As He Was NOT Looking Where He Was Going And Almost Came A Cropper, Being Flatened By A Very Large Truck In Cairo Egypt, In 1944, My Uncle Was Stationed In Eqypt, Though Our Most Of Second World War, 1939--1945,!!!!! And The Yanks Gave My Uncle A Purple 💜 Heart,!!!! Because He Was Wounded,!!! Broke His Fingers And Hand,!!!!!.

[@jussihamalainen7692]

A side note: Britain was not involved in the war in Vietnam, but Australia sent troops to support the American effort. Which is why Keith Payne VC ended up fighting in that conflict.

[@denismorgan9742]

Side note Britain did have minimal inclusion in Vietnam.

[@myview5840]

We had brought the uprising to an end, til America said France should get the colony of vietnam back, were they once again went full arrogant, annoyed the locals, hence the war.

[@denismorgan9742]

@@myview5840 another view was it was French colony prior ww2, but after tried to reclaim it because of having few colonies needed the money to rebuild France, plus USA got on the French backs, then the French couldn't handle the situation hence getting USA involved. But the British was there for a short time with a small input, but successful.

[@morgawr9339]

Point of order. British forces served in French Indochina after the Japanese surrender, fighting against the emergent Viet Cong. Due to the experience gained from years fighting in the Jungle, they were successful in defeating insurgent forces on the ground. Britain then handed control to newly arrived French forces who with little to no experience in jungle fighting struggled to adapt to the conditions and would eventually surrender at Dien Bien Phu. Watch The History Chap for the excellent video on Britain's Vietnam.

[@denismorgan9742]

@@morgawr9339 no need to watch the film, I have the book Vietnam, this explains from the very first day, the first incursion, every battle, the politics and how USA could not win.

[@ianp1986]

A few others have mentioned it but please follow this up with Clarkson’s documentary on The Greatest Raid Of All. Great reaction, guys, very respectful. I love that twist at the end. I also love this side of Clarkson that you don’t get to see very often. Forgive me for not understanding that bit where you were talking at the end but did Daniel win a bravery award?

[@Simpleburger1968]

Clarkson is a controversial figure and is not everyone's "cup of tea". His presentation of this documentary ...and the ones on the "Greatest Raid" - St Nazaire and the "PQ17 -Arctic Convoy" are superb !

[@Max_Flashheart]

The St Nazaire raid is truly amazing

[@mikeantonio3163]

Jeremy Clarkson is unique and speaks and writes the truth!

[@loopielou4426]

It took a very brave woman like Meghan Markle to bring this man down. perhaps when she did that she should have found out what his true values were and why he might have been disgusted by her actions towards his country.

[@mikeantonio3163]

@loopielou4426 Fortunately, she's sunk much lower.

[@oliverreedslovechild]

@@loopielou4426 She hasn't ' brought him down ' at all, but I'll never forgive him for apologising to them. My own views on that thing are somewhat more extreme than Clarksons.

[@marcusthresh1172]

Jeremy Clarkson's greatest raid of all is amazing

[@jimmunro4649]

That is Unreal Story to

[@chrisholland7367]

Great recommendation 👍

[@monkeebun]

Thanks, Gents. Your most moving tributes through this reaction are so much appreciated. My father was at Arnhem. He survived but is no longer with us. He would have seen this as a heartfelt tribute. Thank you.

[@justadadpostingstuff2746]

I love your videos guys, but as an Englishman who adores military history, I'm so pleased you did this video, I think to understand history is to understand who we are. I think it is the best piece of TV Clarkson has ever done and tells an amazing story. It is also part of a wider story that unites our two nations and I can see how much you can FEEL this story. Without doubt my favourite reaction video you have done! (although I love most of them to be fair). There is a warmth and a connection you have, if you are ever over in the UK, I'm sure we'd all love to take you out for a beer lads! thanks for all your content.

[@loopielou4426]

Here here.

[@adriangoodrich4306]

Or three. These two deserve it. I'm in.

[@Acanofbeer]

Did you know that a senior officer will salute a VC recipient first. The last winner was a Lance Corporal in 2013. Imagine a General has to salute him first…and rightly so. Thank you both for this great upload. Love you guys. 👌👍

[@HORNET6]

It’s the Commission or the decoration that is being saluted, not the person

[@philiprice7875]

story dont know if true a major anniversery was coming up including a march past with top UK dignities' a young captain was checking out the podium when he sees an old south asian man in civvies wearing his "fruit salad" goes over to him brings him to the podium gets him a chair, the podium fills up top UK politicians, ambassadors, couple of royals the works. the old guy a Ghurka, the fruit salad a VC , to me he had more right to be on that podium the a prime minister

[@daveward-xq1oi]

Purple Heart is for being wounded isnt it? Not sure that compares with a VC. If you are wearing a VC, you are saluted....by all ranks, in other words, a VC holder who is a private in the army is saluted by a General etc.

[@Mike-rw2nh]

Dad told my Purple Hearts were doled out for anyone with gonorrhoea. So I’m in agreement with you.

[@zachm2331]

That’s how it works for the American Congressional Medal of Honor as well, a service member wearing one is saluted, regardless of rank. The CMoH/MoH (same Medal, just two different names) is the American equivalent of the VC.

[@barrywood7322]

In the British army we haven’t got any equivalent to the purple heart.

[@BedsitBob]

@@Mike-rw2nh And you didn't get the salute. Instead you got the clap. 😁

[@johnbaker1256]

​@@barrywood7322 At one stage you got a coloured cloth stripe to sew on your sleeve (wound stripe).

[@StevanOvich61]

Respect to you guys. Thanks for this .... Your understanding is admiral...

[@mikedavies1827]

This always brings a tear to my eye, this and remembrance Sunday. I think k if you sign up looking to get a VC, you'll never get one. The other thing that always strikes me is the Ghurkas. All the stories I've ever heard always make thankful they are allies and part of the British army. This documentary is quite old, 20 years I think, so unsure if there have been winners since. There is a KZbin video about Dipprasad Pun, who singlehandedly held his post against the Taliban, when a relief force turned up they found 30 dead Taliban, one bludgeoned to death with the tripod of the gun. Never upset a Ghurka.

[@philiprice7875]

during a military parade for the anniversary of a event a young officer who was in charge of a VIP area noticed an old indian guy wearing his medals and saw he had been awarded the VC he took him him to the VIP section where he stood in the same group as the prime minister and all the other bigwigs, when the head of the armed forces saw him he went up to him and saluted

[@PaganPunk]

As soon as I hear Nimrod, I'm in tears!! X

[@suckered1316]

we owe our lives to these guys and their character , bravery and sense of duty. Thank you. Brings me to tears every time.

[@philiprice7875]

back in 2014 when we was doing the annerversity of start of WW1 some one asked me would you have joined up? i answered "god i hope so"

[@Andy-tm3wc]

This was a great documentary you should definitely watch the others clarkson made ‘the greatest raid of all’ and the one on pq17 arctic convoys

[@FixTheLanes]

Thank you for doing this, i served in 2 para for 9 years and although i lost a few good mates I'm fortunate enough to still be here all be it slightly less of a person. Ty for the respect you showed during this. I really appreciate it.

[@ShaneWalta]

They don't mention it in this documentary, but there's a military cemetery at Arnhem, which is looked after with the help of school children from the town who are taught about the men who gave their lives to try and liberate what would become their home.

[@gaudiocrewe]

It takes much to hit me in the guts.... That was superb. Love all of the other reactions too... Magic..

[@billlane1000]

The greatest raid is the one to look at next, that will surely humble you both. Regards from London England

[@Diamondmine212]

No it doesn’t compare to the purple heart, it is waaaaaay more than that. It is THE highest bravery award. It’s place in our military history makes it THE most honoured medal.

[@JonathanReynolds1]

I always get a thrill with Jeremy Clarkson’s mike drop at the end when he said he was married to his daughter.

[@mikesheldon1957]

I served in the British army for 10 years and was a Company Signaller Std 1, did my basic training at Bassingbourn Barracks (where they filmed the first part of Full Metal Jacket), passed my Std 1 signals course at Warminster School of Infantry and was the signaller to the OC. Joined up and was sworn in when the Falklands war was on and saw action in 1990 in a warm place. I come from a military family, my grandfather was in WW1 and was an 'Old Contemptable' and survived the war, Great Uncle was evacuated from Dunkirk in WW2 and then went back in the first wave on D-Day and survived the war, Father was in the Malaysian Uprising and my 4 x Great Uncle was in the Royal Horse Artillery and fought at Waterloo firing the cannons at the French also two of his sons were in the military one joined the Royal Horse Artillery the other joined the Royal Sappers and Miners as a Bugler which were the fledgeling Royal Engineers. You don't tend to talk about what you did, you just do the duty you signed up to do and serve your country and monarch in my case my Queen.

[@daisybelle1025]

You saw action in the Falklands in 1990????

[@SeanHendy]

I served. I saw action, as did a great many others, and I'm certainly not comparing myself in any way the recipients of such awards, but on the topic mentioned at 54 mins, of being awarded something at the time that you are still getting over what you went through, it is very true. No need to go into details, but I served for 11 years, I went to a number of places and the second place I went to was quite eventful. A number of things happened, and one in particular I reacted to the situation and dealt with it. I was notified some days later that I was being nominated for recognition. Five months later, now back at a different home base than I deployed from, I was on a parade receiving a campaign medal (everyone on the tour gets those) and a commendation, and similar to what was described in the video, after the parade, I was then asked by a number of people in my new station, about the award, all the while having just recently started counselling for PTSD. Did I want to talk to anyone (other than the counsellor) about anything at that time? No chance. And as for what you said at the end of the video about talking about it, my parents still don't know.

[@peterbellwood5412]

Tell them before it's too late son .

[@martinlarkin8066]

We in New Zealand are very proud of our VC holders. We have one that won it twice.

[@catzkeet4860]

Yes, that was Charles Upham VC, who was awarded two VCs. The last one awarded, and the only NZVC is Willie Apiata in 2007. NZers have been awarded 23 VCs which ain't bad going for a tiny little country on the other side of the world, if we want to talk awards proportional to population.

[@bonkerslez91]

One of only 3 men to ever do so

[@johnnyuk3365]

The Imperial War Museum in London has a gallery called the Lord Ashcroft Gallery which contains 200 Victoria Crosses donated to the Museum by Lord Ashcroft who has spent decades collecting medals at an enormous cost (he can afford it). Each medal is displayed with the story behind each cross. Very moving going around it. The award of the medal was obviously a very proud moment for the recipient and their family but unfortunately over the years many families have sold the medal. Either tempted by the money they are worth, or, as many of them were awarded to working class families, many had no option but to sell it during hard times. At least many sold are now on free public display at the museum.

[@sidscrote7570]

Hi Johnny UK, our village Royal British Legion branch went on a coach trip to the IWM, as you mention, the Lord Ashcroft medal collection was fantastic. My humble 1962 General Service gong seem rather pathetic when witnesing all this history.

[@daisybelle1025]

The IWM is a great day out....top to bottom, it will teach you the things people want you to forget

[@theotherside8258]

better in the museum than in a drawer.

[@PaganPunk]

One of my Favourite London Museums....But also the history of the building its in! .....❤

[@philiprice7875]

been 5 times can only read 4 stories before losing it

[@paulconnett3654]

Thank You for showing respect to the VC. I've met and worked with war veterans, Commandos, Paratroopers etc.. they do not boost about killing people! They are Old School and not to be messed with. My Respect for your service.And I'm serious about that. Cheer's 🇬🇧 Edit: spelling?

[@MichaelHill-we7vt]

the Purple Heart is awarded for injury or wound while serving in uniform.the Victoria Cross is awarded for acts of bravery above and beyond that normally required of the British soldier in the line of duty.........it is the highest award there is for courage.and that intends no disrespect to those men who have won the Congressional Medal of Honour......when you hear of the feats of bravery which did NOT merit the award of a VC, you will understand.............

[@michaeljohnson-li5nn]

The VC is awarded for valour, not for bravery, not for distinguished service or length of service…but for valour.

[@MichaelHill-we7vt]

@@michaeljohnson-li5nn Indeed, the choice of the words on the Victoria Cross are significant, in that the simple inscription reads "For Valour"... and this choice of words was made by Queen Victoria herself, as she vetoed the original choice of inscription, which was to have been "For The Brave", and her reasoning for vetoing it and substituting the simpler "For Valour" was that she felt that ALL of her soldiers WERE brave, and she believed that the medal should mark the special quality of the men who would earn it....... it is the very simplicity and understated dignity of the medal that makes it unique. It is very, very special, as are the men who wear it...............

[@crackpot148]

The two youngest recipients of the VC were 15 year old soldiers. The Royal Navy's youngest recipient was 16 years old. He was mortally wounded at the battle of Jutland but remained at post awaiting orders when all the others of the crew who manned the gun he was assigned to had been killed. His rank was Boy First Class.

[@philipocallaghan]

13 hundred NOT 13 thousand as you said have been awarded the Victoria cross! 1300 awards in total out of 10s of millions......

[@edinburghgirl1]

I like the Victoria Cross’ quiet elegance and quintessential Britishness is in an of itself it’s own beauty

[@davidrobinson5664]

Great reaction guys....I know I'm biased, but the story of Charles Upham, the only recipient to have won 2 VC's in combat, is incredible (plus, he's from my own hometown of Christchurch, in New Zealand!).

[@shaunvduke]

Just an ordinary bloke.. Doing extraordinary things True Legend!

[@MichaelHill-we7vt]

there have actually been three men who have been awarded the Victoria Cross and Bar.... Charles Upham, as you so rightly said, who is the only man to win two VC's during World War 2, and Surgeon captain Arthur Martin Leake, who won his first VC in 1902, during the Boer War, for rescuing wounded men under heavy enemy fire, despite being shot three times, and his second VC in October/November 1914, as a Lieutenant in the RAMC for again rescuing several wounded men lying near enemy trenches. The third man to win two VC's is Noel Godfrey Chavasse, on 9 August 1914 as a medical officer he was severely wounded while treating wounded soldiers, and despite his wounds crawled to within 25 yards of an enemy trench to rescue more wounded men. At the end of July early August 1917, he was critically wounded while organising searches for wounded men in No man's Land, and despite his wounds worked on for two days treating casualties without rest or food...sadly dying of his wounds on 2 August 1917. For this he received the award of a second VC, posthumously. Noel Chavasse is officially recognised as the most commemorated soldier of the war, with no fewer than 16 different roads, buildings, plaques and memorials to him throughout the country. By a rather bizarre set of coincidences, the three men who are double VC winners are also linked by something you couldnt make up in a work of fiction.....The last man to actually treat Noel Chavasse as he died was none other than Arthur Martin Leake, the first double VC winner........and as an even further strange coincidence, Noel Chavasse was also distantly related, by marriage, to Charles Upham, the third double VC winner...........

[@dallassukerkin6878]

@@MichaelHill-we7vt Fact is indeed stranger than fiction, Michael! Those linkages you would be scorned for making in a merely made-up tale!

[@johnfarmer1214]

@@MichaelHill-we7vt correction- what David Robinson said was correct only one man has won two VCs for combat action regardless of which war it was in!

[@philiprice7875]

@@MichaelHill-we7vt in liverpool we have Chavass park and a new hospitial wing called the Chavass centre his grave has 2 VC's carved on it

[@babalonkie]

What people often forget... He was not a NCO, not a Lieutenant or even a Captain... He was a Major. The people often described as being safe, in a tent... drinking tea.

[@TechyMantis]

"you need to shine, not the medal" I couldn't have put it better myself.

[@nicholaslawlor8623]

Purple Heart is a participation award, get a splinter get a PH, CMOH is a real medal awarded for extreme heroism, similar to the VC.

[@tSp289]

A friend of mine's great grandad was in WW1. During a charge, the entire line was getting cut to shreds. Men started retreating, but they were still getting mown down, so they hid in shell holes, bit the dirt, did whatever to stay alive. One man ran forward alone, pretty much the only man still chargin forward, and got to the enemy trench. Jumping into a machine gun nest, he killed the operators, lifted the machine gun off its mount, slung the belt over his shoulder and ran up the enemy trench, firing the machine gun from the hip, silencing enough of the enemy machine guns that his comrades were able to break through and take the trench. He was given the Military Cross, not the VC. So yeah, pretty hard to achieve.

[@richardparker56]

Those guys went above. But I want to thank you and everyone in the forces for keeping us safe. You all deserve a medal. 👍 There are some exceptional stories, but each and every person going into the military is brave. And protects us all. I thank you all. 🍻🍻cheers.

[@killingjon]

"You need to shine not the medal" - very well put!

[@neilbates4111]

It seems to me one of the greatest qualities of VC winners is their modesty, they all look humble bless everyone of them

[@nathanmaker7824]

"we just went in there and did it" thats 1 thing every recipient has in common they NEVER complain or regret anything and they STILL say that the men who gave their lives are braver than they are

[@funkyfoodster]

Take a look a Rorkes Drift where a 150 men of the 2/24th regiment of foot fought 3000-4000 Zulu warriors. 11 VC's were won in that engagement. The museum for the regiment is not far from me in Brecon. It's a humbling experience to visit.

[@loopielou4426]

And to think today our children are being taught to be ashamed of our history.

[@DrTinyToff]

So glad you covered this one. It's the 4th time I've watched it now and everytime I get a lump in my throat. Its a mixture of sadness, gratitude, and immense pride. Those men sacrificed everything so we could live freely. I'm very proud to be a Brit 🇬🇧❤

[@michellejones1618]

It is the name and the act of the exceptional individual that renders it priceless.

[@Wabbit_Hunta]

Priceless: The looks on your faces at the end [@1:11:10] Gobsmacked is the expression we use when we learn of something like this, and it's truly jaw dropping to say the least. To learn that you have a VC holder in the family and not know about it until they've passed away.

[@menaceiwill1]

I was always gutted i was born in Staffordshire, just a small town. but i am now ever so proud i was, thanks too this man. ❤

[@64mickh]

The Purple heart is awarded for being wounded/injured, you can get the heart for being injured in a vehicle crash if it’s in a theatre of combat. The closest you guys have to the VC would be the Congressional Medal of Honour.

[@chitster]

Big big insult comparing the purple heart, the victoria cross is THE rarest medal for gallantry in the world.

[@MichaelHill-we7vt]

I really dont think insult is intended here....... I cant imagine either of these lads intending any insult to any medal winners, its simply a misunderstanding of the criteria for the award of these particular medals........

[@kaylucas51]

There are a breed apart and we owe so much to them heroes

[@Captally]

You'll now be inundated with recommendations for watching Clarkson's other presentation "The Greatest Raid of All". Do yourselves a favour and watch it.

[@paulrose8967]

love the fact it becomes priceless through the episode of bravery it represents,and not through its metalic value

[@chrisellis3797]

Not to denigrate the Purple Heart or anybody who has made the ultimate sacrifice for their nation, but the VC criteria for earning it is so far ahead of any other medal it's crazy.

[@SpookyFox1000]

Thank you gents for your respectful commentary . America are our best friends ! Thank the Lord for that !

[@johnsimms8285]

The Purple Heart is awarded if you are injured. The Victoria Cross is equivalent to the Congressional Medal of Honour

[@ronalddeavy2657]

You dont win the VC,your are awarded it.

[@AH-fg8dk]

Someone I always admire is Captain Noel Godfrey Chavasse, VC & Bar, MC (Military Cross). A non-combatant and one of only three people to win the VC twice (the bar). While for some his skills would have been better served in a military hospital. Like many, he did not have want to leave his troops. In fact, the entire family are a cut above. His twin brother Christopher was awarded the MC and later as Bishop of Rochester an OBE. Christopher’s son was also awarded the MC in WW2, and Noel’s fiancé Gladys was mentioned in despatched in WW2 at Monte Casino.

[@mrp9109]

Love your videos and your obvious connection, and so glad you did this documentary. My favourite fact about the VC is that in the military no matter your rank you salute the VC ( purple ribbon) , the idea of generals saluting lower ranks if they have earned a VC is humbling. Highly recommend clarksons “ the greatest raid ever” 👍 best wishes from the uk 🇬🇧

[@RichardGadsden]

When Johnson Beharry VC was receiving his award, Sir Michael Jackson - then the chief of general staff (ie the most senior general in the entire British army) - was also receiving an award (the GCB) from the Queen the same day. Beharry saluted his commanding officer when he saw him. Beharry then went up to receive the medal, and Jackson saluted him when he turned around, since Beharry was now wearing a VC. The head of the entire British Army saluted a private that day. Jackson said that he was proud to have stood alongside Beharry.

[@mrp9109]

@@RichardGadsden Amazing story thank you for that. Any VC story is worth a listen or a read. My uncle met and spoke with a VC awarded during the Korean War, hearing the story and a bit of research it must have been Bill Speakman that he met. They are a different breed and deserve Such respect 🫡

[@grapplehoeker]

Whoa! Digging very deep today! This documentary is now 20 years old! It's still a story worth hearing and I'm glad you learned it ;)

[@SISU889]

Jeremy is great with these true stories . More please jezza !

[@whisperedarcc6543]

During the first 44 years the Victoria Cross was in place as a military award, the soldier had to survive the engagement/battle in order to be awarded it. There were numerous men who were due to recieve a VC except they were killed during the action in question. After the second boer war a clause was added to allow soldiers to recieve the award postumously.

[@adammullarkey4996]

"Is it comparable to the Purple Heart?" gave me a chuckle.

[@wellreally5854]

Thank you for the respect you have shown to our VC winners, Loved the WTF moment at the end 😄,after this you really should react to, The Greatest Raid Of all Time, Stay safe

[@steved6092]

This is Jeremy Clarkson at his very best ... great reaction guys

[@cindygardener-collinsmimi531]

You two guys are super respectful & we love watching you in the UK. All soldiers are brave & don't do what they do for medals, Regiments are made up of Brothers who watch each others back & it takes someone special to have that mind set. This is a big part of why we have Remembrance Day & wear a poppy, it is a small way of appreciating what all the service people did for the Liberty we take for granted today. History as this should always be taught to kids so it remains a warning that it could happen again if you let it & they have the means of making sure it doesn't. War is not like a video game & it's not full of glory & you don't all return home clutching a handful of medals & slip back into civvie life unaffected & meet up in the pub with your old commrades laughing & sharing stories, that is a fairy tale that is massively bigger than Cinderella & some. My Grandfather was the Officer that led the Liberation of Belsen concentration camp, he also had to remain behind to give evidence at the War Trials so I know a lot of the basics but he wouldn't talk about the real horrors but we were brought up with the mindset that it is important that the fallen should never be forgotten, their sacrifices are incomprehensible.

[@philiprice7875]

my grandad who served 8th army told me when i was young "dont wear your poppy with pride, wear it with sadness and respect for those who are lost and buried in a distant land" i am now 63 and still do

[@raverdeath100]

it should be said that 4 VC's have been awarded since this programme was made - one in Iraq and three in Afghanistan.

[@claregale9011]

Hi guys, you could also look into the story of the Britain's unknown warrior . its very moving .

[@nathanmaker7824]

as an Australian i can tell you that if you have a Victoria cross you are one of the hardest c**ts on the face of the planet without question.. ive only ever had the honor of meeting one recipient and the story he told me still rings in my memory because it was something i could never imagine surviving

[@suekennedy1595]

The Australian Victoria cross winners were called to London for the Queens funeral.

[@dimetime35c]

I know there is some argument which is more prestigious the VC or MoH. It doesn't matter, they both show the soldier has gone above and beyond the call of duty. They both show a man has been willing to or has laid down his life for his fellow soldiers.

[@johnfarmer1214]

Interesting fact - William Manley was awarded a VC by the British and Iron Cross from the Germans!! (was born in Ireland)

[@alanp2953]

Thanks for giving these stories airtime gents it was worth doing and good to watch....

[@Sonofthe1655]

The actor Audy Murphy was awarded 3 purple hearts and went on to be a famous actor.

[@Mr9ig]

You don’t do these sorts of things for your country, you do it for your mate. The man standing next to you the forces make mates for life, you might not see each other in years but that bond is still there.

[@knowlesy3915]

Great reaction Please do part 2: the greatest raid. There's a third but that seems to get blocked.

[@juniusvindex769]

My local town had one of the captured Russian cannon that is used to make the medals. It stood outside our town hall before being removed. I served in 1 Wessex TAVR because my town was highly decorated as a garrison town, and I was proud to serve and my church held their battle honours ( flags) , lately as the church went woke, they have gone. My history teacher at school was a para at Arnhem, his lessons were epic. He told of paras being shot in the air, getting caught in trees and buildings. He got to Arnhem by carrying equipment for 3 men only to be beaten back when his oppos never turned up. Proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with my local brethren. I never saw combat unfortunately, but wanted to . I did my small part to honour my uncle who was conscripted in to the Royal Artillery in Korea. This was when the British Bulldog spirit was a thing, todays kids are too wet.

[@adrianallen8270]

Excellent post

[@janebrown1706]

Oh crap the church went woke! Stupid bloody poms. What happened to the battle honours???

[@ltsecomedy2985]

Hi guys, great to see your reaction to this topic. As well as repeating the other commentators suggestion, to react to (The Greatest Raid Of All). I would like to suggest (13 Hrs That Saved Britain), which details how the events of 15th Sept.1940, meant we avoided invasion by the Germans in WWII.

[@melanieatkinson5114]

My uncle served in WW2 and would never talk about it. He took me to the pub once and told me so much, I was stunned. Also the Ghurkas were and still are the best in the world

[@garyburley1960]

in the video you mentioned 'into the valley of the the shadow of death' that is where the VC cannon was captured