Army
Outrage Over School's Plan To Sell WW1 Victoria Cross
A school has been criticised for planning to sell a First World War soldier's Victoria Cross to help fund new sports facilities.
Ashby School in Leicestershire wants to sell the medals of Lt Col Philip Bent for the project, saying it will inspire future generations, but his former Regiment say the decision would be wrong.
Lt Col Bent's citation reads:
"For most conspicuous bravery, when during a heavy hostile attack, the right of his own command and the battalion on his right were forced back. The situation was critical owing to the confusion caused by the attack and the intense artillery fire."
"Lt Col Bent personally collected a platoon that was in reserve, and together with men from other companies and various regimental details, he organised and led them forward to the counter-attack, after issuing orders to other officers as to the further defence of the line.
"The counter-attack was successful and the enemy were checked. The coolness and magnificent example shown to all ranks by Lt Col Bent resulted in the securing of a portion of the line which was of essential importance for subsequent operations
"This very gallant officer was killed whilst [sic] leading a charge which he inspired with the call of 'Come on the Tigers'."
The first Victoria Cross was awarded in 1856, originally to recognise some of the most courageous acts during the Crimean War.
To date a total of 1,358 medals have been won, the most recent by Lance Corporal Joshua Leakey for extraordinary bravery in Afghanistan.
More from Forces TV: WWI Victoria Cross Medal Discovered in Brighton
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