Can You Still Earn the Victoria Cross? Yes, But It's Extremely Rare

The Victoria Cross (VC) remains the UK's highest military decoration for valor. It can still be awarded to British/Commonwealth personnel for "conspicuous gallantry" in enemy presence, but criteria have tightened.

• Only 14 VCs awarded since WWII ended (1945).
• Last recipient: Lance Corporal Joshua Leakey (posthumous, 2013, for 2012 Afghanistan actions).
• Total awarded since 1856: 1,358 (1,113 in WWI/WWII).

The VC is still active but reserved for truly extraordinary battlefield bravery.