The Navy Cross is one of the United States' most prestigious military decorations, awarded to members of the United States Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard for extraordinary heroism in combat. It is the second-highest military honor that can be bestowed upon an individual by the Department of the Navy, surpassed only by the Medal of Honor. The award's rich history and stringent criteria make it a highly esteemed and coveted distinction.
A Distinguished History
The origins of the Navy Cross can be traced back to the aftermath of World War I. On February 4, 1919, the Distinguished Service Cross was established, and it was applicable to all branches of the military. However, there was a growing recognition that the Navy required a distinct award to recognize its personnel’s unique contributions and sacrifices.
On February 4, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson signed Executive Order 3064, establishing the Navy Cross. The award was designed to recognize acts of extraordinary heroism that did not meet the criteria for the Medal of Honor. It was intended to be awarded for bravery in combat, but not limited to combat situations alone.
The Navy Cross gained prominence during World War II, where it was awarded to countless service members for their valor and sacrifice. It has since been awarded in every major conflict, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, and more recently, the Global War on Terrorism.
Stringent Criteria for Award
The Navy Cross is awarded to any member of the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard who, while serving with the U.S. Navy in combat, distinguishes themselves by extraordinary heroism. The act of bravery must be so notable and involve risk of life so extraordinary as to set the individual apart from their comrades.
The criteria for the Navy Cross are meticulously defined and rigorously applied. The act of heroism must occur in one of the following circumstances:
- While engaged in action against an enemy of the United States
- While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force
- While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party
The Navy Cross is typically awarded by the Secretary of the Navy, but it can also be presented by other authorized officials. The awardee's commanding officer must initiate the nomination, which is then reviewed by a board of officers before final approval.
Examples of Navy Cross Recipients
The Navy Cross has been awarded to numerous individuals for their exceptional bravery and sacrifice. Here are a few notable examples:
- Captain Eddie Rickenbacker, a World War I flying ace, received the Navy Cross for his heroism during a rescue mission in the South Pacific.
- Admiral William F. Halsey Jr. was awarded the Navy Cross for his leadership and bravery during the Battle of Santa Cruz Islands in World War II.
- Marine Corps Sergeant Jason Dunham was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for throwing himself on a grenade to save his fellow Marines during the Iraq War.
The Physical Appearance of the Navy Cross
The Navy Cross is a bronze cross pattee, 2 inches (5.08 cm) high, with crossed anchors in the angles of the cross. The center of the cross bears an eagle with outstretched wings, and the entire design is in raised relief. The reverse of the cross is engraved with the recipient’s name, rank, and organization.
The Navy Cross is often presented in a formal ceremony, with the recipient's family and fellow service members in attendance. It is a highly emotional and significant event, recognizing the individual's sacrifice and heroism.
The Navy Cross and Other Awards
The Navy Cross is part of a hierarchy of military awards and decorations. It is typically awarded after the Silver Star and before the Distinguished Service Cross. The Medal of Honor, however, surpasses all other awards and is the highest military decoration in the United States.
It's important to note that the Navy Cross is not awarded lightly. The criteria are stringent, and the act of heroism must be exceptional and clearly distinguish the individual from their peers.
Comparison with Other Military Awards
While the Navy Cross is a highly esteemed award, it is not the only military decoration that recognizes bravery and sacrifice. Here is a brief comparison with some other notable military awards:
| Award | Criteria | Recipients |
|---|---|---|
| Medal of Honor | Conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty | Highest military decoration |
| Distinguished Service Cross | Extreme gallantry and risk of life in actual combat with an armed enemy force | Second-highest military award for valor |
| Silver Star | Gallantry in action involving actual conflict with an enemy force | Third-highest military decoration for valor |
The Navy Cross holds a special place in military history, and its recipients are forever etched in the annals of naval valor. The award serves as a constant reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by service members in defense of their country.
Can civilians receive the Navy Cross?
+While the Navy Cross is primarily awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, civilians can also be eligible under certain circumstances. Civilians who are attached to the Navy or serving with friendly foreign forces can be considered for the award if they meet the criteria.
How many Navy Crosses have been awarded?
+The exact number of Navy Crosses awarded is not publicly available, as the Navy maintains a confidential database of recipients. However, it is estimated that thousands of Navy Crosses have been awarded since its inception.
Can the Navy Cross be revoked?
+Yes, the Navy Cross can be revoked if it is determined that the award was presented based on erroneous information or if the recipient is found to have committed an act that brings discredit upon the military. However, such cases are extremely rare.
