> Myself, I think it's sad they're being sold but Upham left them to his heirs and the decision is therefore theirs.
I disagree. His heirs did nothing to deserve making a windfall from his heroism. They are a National Treasure. His VCs must never be allowed to leave these shores.
Pay them off if filthy lucre is what they are wanting. For shame that they don't turn the medals over as a matter of good citizenship to Te Papa.
Upham's medals deserve to be admired by future generations of Kiwis.
(Te Papa is the NZ equivalent of the Smithsonian)
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.