“I have decided to create at once a new mark of honour for men and women in all walks of civilian life.”

80 years ago today, King George VI announced the creation of the George Cross. The award ranks alongside the Victoria Cross, and recognises acts of bravery away from battle.

Since 1940, the George Cross has been awarded over 400 times.

During WW2, many recipients were recognised for their roles in bomb disposals, or their work with the secret Special Operations Executive.

📷 John Babington, who defused German bombs; Odette Hallowes, an SOE agent