How Do You Earn a Navy Cross?
The Navy Cross is the second-highest military honor that can be awarded to a member of the United States Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. It is awarded for extraordinary heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States, and is considered to be the Navy’s equivalent of the Army’s Distinguished Service Cross and the Air Force’s Air Force Cross.
What are the Criteria for the Navy Cross?
To be eligible for the Navy Cross, an individual must have distinguished themselves by extraordinary heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States. The criteria for the award are as follows:
- Heroism: The individual must have demonstrated extraordinary heroism in the face of grave danger, often at the risk of their own life.
- Action: The individual must have been engaged in action against an enemy of the United States, such as combat, reconnaissance, or other military operations.
- Danger: The individual must have been in a situation where they were exposed to danger, such as enemy fire, ambush, or other hazards.
- Results: The individual’s actions must have resulted in a significant impact on the outcome of the situation, such as saving lives, preventing casualties, or achieving a tactical victory.
Types of Actions that May Result in a Navy Cross
The following types of actions may result in a Navy Cross:
- Combat: Engaging in combat with an enemy of the United States, such as fighting in a battle or engaging in a firefight.
- Reconnaissance: Conducting reconnaissance missions behind enemy lines, such as gathering intelligence or conducting surveillance.
- Rescue: Participating in a rescue mission, such as saving the lives of fellow service members or civilians.
- Other Military Operations: Engaging in other military operations, such as patrolling, ambushes, or raids.
How to Nominate Someone for a Navy Cross
To nominate someone for a Navy Cross, the following steps must be taken:
- Gather Information: Gather all relevant information about the individual’s actions, including eyewitness accounts, photographs, and other supporting documentation.
- Complete the Nomination Package: Complete the Navy Cross nomination package, which includes a detailed description of the individual’s actions, as well as any supporting documentation.
- Submit the Nomination: Submit the nomination package to the individual’s commanding officer, who will review and forward it to the Navy’s Awards and Decorations Branch.
The Navy Cross Nomination Process
The Navy Cross nomination process typically involves the following steps:
- Initial Review: The individual’s commanding officer reviews the nomination package and determines whether it meets the criteria for the award.
- Forwarding to the Next Level: If the nomination meets the criteria, it is forwarded to the next level of review, which is typically the unit or squadron commander.
- Final Review: The nomination is reviewed by the final level of review, which is typically the Navy’s Awards and Decorations Branch.
- Award: If the nomination is approved, the individual is awarded the Navy Cross.
Facts and Figures about the Navy Cross
Here are some interesting facts and figures about the Navy Cross:
- Number of Awards: As of 2022, over 7,000 Navy Crosses have been awarded since its establishment in 1914.
- Rarity: The Navy Cross is considered to be a rare award, with only a small percentage of service members receiving it.
- Notable Recipients: Some notable recipients of the Navy Cross include:
- John Glenn: The first American to orbit the Earth, who received the award for his heroism during World War II.
- Chuck Yeager: The first person to break the sound barrier, who received the award for his heroism during World War II.
- Pat Tillman: A former NFL player who received the award posthumously for his heroism in Afghanistan.
Conclusion
The Navy Cross is a prestigious award that recognizes extraordinary heroism in the face of grave danger. To be eligible for the award, an individual must have demonstrated heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States. The nomination process involves gathering information, completing a nomination package, and submitting it to the individual’s commanding officer. The Navy Cross is a rare award, and only a small percentage of service members receive it.
