The distribution of Crimean Medals on Horse Guards Parade

A watercolour showing the Queen presenting the Crimean Medal to Major and Brevet-Lt-Col. Sir Thomas Trowbridge of the 7th Royal Fusilers on 18 May 1855. Prince Albert stands behind the Queen, and beside her the Prince of Wales, in Highland Dress.

The Crimea Medal was awarded to all those in the British Army, the Royal Navy and Royal Marines who had served in the Crimea. Queen Victoria wished to present the medal to some of the men herself. On 18 May 1855 she distributed 768 medals, and can be seen here presenting one to Major and Brevet-Lt-Col. Sir Thomas Trowbridge of the 7th Royal Fusiliers, ‘who with his shattered limbs was drawn along in a bath chair by a Private of his Regt.’