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King George V's War Museum

A collection displayed at Windsor Castle by George V following the First World War

AFTER FRANK O SALISBURY (1874-1962)

The John Cornwell Incident

RCIN 751255

This is a colour reproduction after a portrait by Frank O Salisbury painted in commemoration of John 'Jack' Cornwell, the youngest First World War recipient of the Victoria Cross. Jack Cornwell gallantly fought in the Battle of Jutland aboard the HMS Chester. He was given the dangerous role of calibrating aim for one of the ship's forward 5.5 inch guns. Under heavy fire, all of the gun's crew were killed except for Jack, who stayed at his post despite being severely wounded. He died two days later aged 16 and in September 1916 King George V presented his mother with his posthumous Victoria Cross.


    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.