Instituted in October 1880 and awarded for participation in the following campaigns: -
Operations against the Galekas, Gaikas and the Tambookies, 26th Septemebr 1877 to 28th June 1878;
Operations against Chief Pokwane, 21st to 28th January 1878;
Operations against the Griquas, 24th April to 13th November 1878;
Operations against the Zulus, 11th January to 1st September 1879;
Operations against the Basutos, 11th November to 2nd December 1879; and
Operations against Chief Moirosi, 25th March to 20 November 1879.
A total of 29 Victoria Crosses were awarded to men serving during these campaigns. Probably the most famous incidents are Ishandlwana and the gallant defence of Rorkes Drift both of which became features of major films 'Zulu Dawn' and 'Zulu'
