27-02-2025
The Imperial War Museum has made a terrible error over its VC gallery
SIR – The Imperial War Museum's decision to close the Lord Ashcroft Gallery and remove the Victoria Cross and George Cross medals from public view (report, February 26) is a disgraceful betrayal of its mission.
By relegating these symbols of bravery and sacrifice to storage, the museum dishonours the memory of the people who earned them and denies visitors a vital connection to Britain's military heritage. The excuse of creating 'new galleries' for post-Second World War conflicts is flimsy at best, and reeks of pandering to ideological trends. By apparently failing to clarify its plans to Lord Ashcroft in good time, the museum also showed a shocking lack of respect.
These medals are not just artefacts – they represent the essence of our national identity and ideals of service. The museum must reverse its decision and continue to honour those who fought for our freedoms.
Jeremy Stone
Hong Kong
SIR – I was greatly saddened to read that the Imperial War Museum is to close the Lord Ashcroft Gallery.
My ancestor Robert Blair won the VC during the Indian Mutiny at Bulandshahr in 1857; earlier this year I went to see his medal, which is in the collection.
I thought all the medals and accompanying details were beautifully and sensitively displayed, and found the whole experience highly informative.
I sincerely hope that a new venue can soon be found so that others can enjoy this wonderful exhibition.
Robin Lane
Devizes, Wiltshire
SIR – As someone who is unashamedly proud of the history and achievements of this nation, I am appalled at the Imperial War Museum's decision.
I can only imagine there was discomfort about some of the people behind these heroic acts, as well as the period in which many of the medals were awarded. The 'imperial' in the museum's name is surely on borrowed time, too. It will be interesting to see what exactly replaces this substantial collection.
The trustees should bear in mind that the medals were won by people from all walks of life, united simply by a willingness to sacrifice themselves for the benefit of others. They are a magnificent leveller.
William Furner
Fakenham, Norfolk
SIR – Perhaps Lord Ashcroft, who kindly loaned his collection to the Imperial War Museum for 15 years, would consider allowing the medals to be displayed in regimental museums in the areas from which their brave recipients came. This would give local people and schoolchildren the opportunity to learn about the courageous and selfless actions that helped to preserve our freedom.
J E Kelly
Horwich, Lancashire
