Elizabeth Cross for next of kin of armed forces personnel killed on operations . Medal is a sterling silver emblem in the shape of a cross over a wreath . First time name of a reigning monarch has been given to an award since 1940 . Comment:
Elizabeth Cross for next of kin of armed forces personnel killed on operations . Medal is a sterling silver emblem in the shape of a cross over a wreath . First time name of a reigning monarch has been given to an award since 1940 . Most prestigious medal , Victoria Cross , introduced by Queen Victoria in 1856 .