How Do You Earn a Navy Cross Medal?
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. In this article, we will explore the criteria and process for earning a Navy Cross medal.
What is the Navy Cross Medal?
The Navy Cross was established by President Theodore Roosevelt on February 4, 1919, and is awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard who distinguish themselves by extraordinary heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States. The medal is awarded for actions that demonstrate gallantry and bravery in the face of danger, and is considered to be the second-highest military honor, after the Medal of Honor.
Criteria for Earning a Navy Cross Medal
To be eligible for the Navy Cross medal, an individual must have distinguished themselves by extraordinary heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States. The criteria for earning a Navy Cross medal are as follows:
- Extraordinary Heroism: The individual must have demonstrated extraordinary heroism, which is defined as conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.
- Action Against an Enemy: The individual must have been engaged in action against an enemy of the United States, which includes enemy forces, vessels, aircraft, or installations.
- Danger: The individual must have been in a situation where they were exposed to danger, which includes the risk of being killed or wounded.
Process for Earning a Navy Cross Medal
The process for earning a Navy Cross medal involves several steps:
- Nomination: The individual’s commanding officer or a senior officer must nominate them for the Navy Cross medal.
- Investigation: The nomination is then investigated by a board of officers, who review the individual’s actions and determine whether they meet the criteria for the award.
- Recommendation: The board of officers makes a recommendation to the Secretary of the Navy, who then makes the final decision on whether to award the medal.
- Award: If the medal is awarded, the individual is presented with the Navy Cross medal and a certificate of award.
Types of Actions That May Result in a Navy Cross Medal
The following types of actions may result in a Navy Cross medal:
- Combat Actions: Engaging in combat against an enemy of the United States, such as in a firefight or during a boarding action.
- Rescue Missions: Participating in a rescue mission, such as rescuing a fellow service member from enemy captivity.
- Intelligence Gathering: Gathering intelligence on enemy forces or installations, which may involve taking risks to gather information.
- Patrols: Conducting patrols in a combat zone, which may involve engaging with enemy forces.
Table: Examples of Navy Cross Medal Recipients
| Name | Rank | Service | Action | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Monsoor | Petty Officer Second Class | Navy | Engaged in combat against enemy forces in Iraq | September 29, 2006 |
| Drew Dix | Sergeant | Marine Corps | Led a patrol in Afghanistan, engaging enemy forces and rescuing a fellow Marine | October 14, 2008 |
| William Kundrat | Sergeant | Marine Corps | Led a patrol in Afghanistan, engaging enemy forces and rescuing a fellow Marine | June 9, 2012 |
Conclusion
The Navy Cross medal is a prestigious award that recognizes extraordinary heroism and bravery in the face of danger. To earn a Navy Cross medal, an individual must have demonstrated extraordinary heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States. The process for earning a Navy Cross medal involves a nomination, investigation, and recommendation, and is awarded by the Secretary of the Navy. The Navy Cross medal is a symbol of the highest level of bravery and dedication to duty, and is considered to be one of the most prestigious awards in the United States military.
