The Victoria Cross (VC) is the highest and most prestigious award of the British honours system. It is awarded for “most conspicuous gallantry in action” to members of the British Armed Forces. The VC was instituted by Queen Victoria on 29 January 1856, during the Crimean War, and is the oldest of the Commonwealth’s military decorations.
The Military Cross (MC) is a military decoration awarded to officers of the British Armed Forces for “gallantry in action”. It was instituted by King Edward VII on 26 June 1914, and is the second highest award for gallantry after the Victoria Cross.
The Military Medal (MM) is a military decoration awarded to other ranks of the British Armed Forces for “gallantry in action”. It was instituted by King George V on 26 June 1914, and is the third highest award for gallantry after the Victoria Cross and the Military Cross.
Mention in Despatches (MID) is a form of recognition for gallantry or distinguished service in the British Armed Forces. It is not an award, but a form of commendation that is recorded in the official despatches of the commanding officer.
The correct answer is A. Victoria Cross.