Michael Ashcroft

This is actually quite a fascinating piece of military history. Michael Ashcroft delves into the 150 Victoria Crosses in his collection to recount the immersive tale of valor behind each and every one of them and how they fell into his care. The highlight for me, as a Sikh, was Ashcroft's narration of the VC awarded to Sepoy (later Captain) Ishar Singh of the 28th Punjabis-British Indian Army-who daringly fought off multiple foes during the Waziristan campaign to rescue his colleagues under fire while grievously wounded himself.

This, however, did not detract me from the valor displayed by other recipients of all services and even civilians (read Indian Mutiny). These tales serve as lessons in leadership and self-responsibility. Ashcroft has provided a book which will speak across generations. The only downside is the somber tone of the pictorials (British brevity?) which lend the book an antiquated and dull look.… (meer)