THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ORDER - DSO

rior to the Crimean War, the British Army had no formal way of recognising bravery on the battlefield. Individuals could receive a promotion, or perhaps a mention in dispatches, but little else. This prompted the creation of a new award: the Victoria Cross for the most conspicuous acts of gallantry. However, it was soon felt that an additional award was needed to recognise courage that was still highly esteemed, but did not in itself justify a Victoria Cross. This prompted