Poll: Overwhelming support for retrospective Victoria Cross for war heroes like Mayne

A poll has revealed strong support for the retrospective awarding of gallantry medals like the Victoria Cross in cases similar to that of Paddy Mayne.

The online poll, conducted over 24 hours on the BFBS Forces News YouTube channel, asked: "With the debate on whether SAS hero Paddy Mayne should receive a Victoria Cross, we want to know – should former military members be able to retrospectively be awarded the medal?"

A total of 4,918 people participated in the poll, with many voicing their opinions on this divisive issue.

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As the debate around Paddy Mayne's case continues to gather momentum, the poll results reveal a clear consensus among respondents.

The results are as follows:

• Yes – 85%
• No – 9%
• Only for Paddy Mayne – 6%

The findings come amid growing parliamentary pressure and a newly announced review by Defence Minister Al Carns into the historical decision that denied Mayne the VC.

Mayne, the legendary soldier who was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) four times during the Second World War, is the subject of renewed calls for the VC after campaigners argued that a clerical error may have blocked the original recommendation for the prestigious medal.

Voices from BFBS Forces News community

The poll sparked a range of passionate responses from participants, with some strongly supporting the retrospective awarding of the VC for Mayne, while others raised concerns about potential implications.

One user, @justanotherbrickinthewall2843, stated: "A lot of medals are awarded posthumously. There should be no problem whatsoever awarding them retroactively. Period."

However, others expressed caution, emphasising the importance of maintaining historical precedent.

@edwinchapple7224 commented: "I'm not saying that he didn't deserve one, but them's the rules. If we give him one posthumously, then we will have to reevaluate every other nomination made over the last 170 or so years."

Some users voiced concerns about the influence of popular media on official recognition.

@chad6080 remarked: "I think setting a precedent that a TV programme should be the trigger for making changes to awards is not something we should be keen on."

@ChalkyRN added: "We are having this conversation because of a fictional TV show glorifying Paddy Mayne. The DSO*** is incredible and already demonstrates what a hero he was… but no individual moment merited a VC."