We may not think they are being put to a worthy disposition (I certainly don't) but that doesn't give us the right to override their property rights. Upham could have left them to the Museum or could have left strict non-disposal instructions. He didn't. He bequeathed them and therefore the authority to control, own, hold and /or dispose of them
I don't want to see the family get any money from the Government. I'd rather the cash went to the vets who haven't been adequately recompensed or to easing the medical situations of NZ Veterans.
> We may not think they are being put to a worthy disposition (I certainly don't) but that doesn't give us the right to override their property rights.
I disagree, and respectfully acknowledge your point.
The Victoria Cross should not be considered "property". No soldier can "buy" one or even "earn" one. It is awarded to *a* specific soldier for *a* specific act of Valor.
It has meaning in that context for as long as that soldier lives, and for as long as one of his descendents honors his/her Memory by wearing it on the right breast at ANZAC day or on other special occasions.
Once the medal has lost that family connexion, it should belong to the Crown as Taonga.
The Victoria Cross is not like a car, or a dog, or a beach bach: something that has a specific monetary value. Each one is Priceless. These medals should not be subject to the indignity of being "collected" by people who did not earn them.
Upham's VCs belong in our Nation's museum. The Government should feel free to seize them without compensation or regret, for the benefit of future generations.
The current custodians of this Taonga clearly do not value these Taonga with the respect they deserve.
For shame that matters have come to this.
Oh, and yes: I do believe in the sanctity of private property, and would die in its defense if need be. But, like I said, I do not believe that Honors such as the VC are "property" -- they are Honors.