The Elizabeth Cross

“I greatly hope that the Elizabeth Cross will give further meaning to the nation’s debt of gratitude to the families and loved ones of those who have died in the service of our country.” Her Majesty The Queen

On Wednesday 1 July 2009, it was announced that Her Majesty The Queen had given her name to a new form of recognition for the families of British Service personnel killed while serving their country.  The Elizabeth Cross and miniature, along with a Memorial Scroll signed by Her Majesty, will be awarded to the relatives of Her Majesty’s Forces personnel killed on active service or as a result of terrorism in a mark of national recognition for their loss.

The Elizabeth Cross is beautifully crafted in silver and the arms of the cross bear the English Rose, Scottish thistle, Irish shamrock and Welsh daffodil.  The name of person in whose memory it is granted are engraved on the reverse of the cross.

The Elizabeth Cross and Scroll were inspired by awards made to bereaved families from the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War.  The Ministry of Defence are keen to publicise this award and all Service museums have been given an Elizabeth Cross and Scroll for display.  The Museum is currently planning a new exhibition which will display the Cross and some examples of previous awards to families of fallen Argylls including the First World War Memorial Plaque or “Dead Man’s Penny”.

Families of those Service personnel who have died since 1948 who may be eligible to apply for the Elizabeth Cross and Scroll are invited to consult the MOD Medal Office website.  However, staff at Home Headquarters and the Museum would also be happy to help with any queries.

“This seems to me a right and proper way of showing our enduring debt to those who are killed while actively protecting what is most dear to us all.  The solemn dignity which we attach to the names of those who have fallen is deeply engrained in our national character.  As a people, we accord this ultimate sacrifice the highest honour and respect.”   Her Majesty The Queen