How Do You Earn the 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, or Coast Guard. It is awarded for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in combat operations. In this article, we will explore the criteria for earning the Navy Cross and the process of receiving this prestigious award.
Criteria for Earning the Navy Cross
The Navy Cross is awarded to individuals who have distinguished themselves by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. To be eligible for the award, an individual must have performed an act of heroism that is considered extraordinary and of great significance. The act must have been performed in combat operations, and the individual must have risked their life to accomplish the act.
Types of Actions That Can Result in the Navy Cross
The following types of actions can result in the award of the Navy Cross:
- Combat heroism: Performing an act of heroism in combat, such as saving the lives of fellow service members or repelling an enemy attack.
- Distinguished service: Performing an act of distinguished service, such as leading a team or unit with exceptional skill and bravery.
- Extraordinary achievement: Achieving something extraordinary, such as developing a new tactic or technology that significantly improves the effectiveness of a unit or operation.
The Process of Awarding the Navy Cross
The process of awarding the Navy Cross involves several steps:
- Nomination: The individual’s commanding officer or a senior officer must nominate the individual for the award.
- Investigation: The individual’s actions are investigated to verify the details of the act.
- Review: The investigation is reviewed by a senior officer to determine whether the individual meets the criteria for the award.
- Approval: The award is approved by the Secretary of the Navy or the Commandant of the Marine Corps.
- Presentation: The award is presented to the individual in a formal ceremony.
What Does the Navy Cross Look Like?
The Navy Cross is a medal that is awarded to individuals who have distinguished themselves by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. The medal is made of gold and is worn on the left side of the chest. It features a depiction of the Seal of the United States Navy on the obverse side and a depiction of a cross on the reverse side.
Famous Recipients of the Navy Cross
Many notable individuals have received the Navy Cross, including:
- Davy Crockett: A former congressman and soldier who received the award for his actions during the Battle of the Alamo.
- John Glenn: An astronaut and senator who received the award for his actions during the Korean War.
- Chuck Yeager: A test pilot and astronaut who received the award for his actions during World War II.
- John McCain: A senator and naval aviator who received the award for his actions during the Vietnam War.
Conclusion
The Navy Cross is a prestigious award that is given to individuals who have distinguished themselves by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. The award is presented to individuals who have performed an act of heroism that is considered extraordinary and of great significance. To be eligible for the award, an individual must have performed an act of heroism in combat operations and risked their life to accomplish the act.
Key Takeaways
- The Navy Cross is the second-highest military honor that can be awarded to a member of the United States Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard.
- The award is given to individuals who have distinguished themselves by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.
- The award is presented to individuals who have performed an act of heroism that is considered extraordinary and of great significance.
- The award is eligible for individuals who have performed an act of heroism in combat operations and risked their life to accomplish the act.
Navy Cross Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Combat heroism | Performing an act of heroism in combat |
| Distinguished service | Performing an act of distinguished service |
| Extraordinary achievement | Achieving something extraordinary |
Navy Cross Nomination Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Nomination | The individual’s commanding officer or a senior officer must nominate the individual for the award |
| Investigation | The individual’s actions are investigated to verify the details of the act |
| Review | The investigation is reviewed by a senior officer to determine whether the individual meets the criteria for the award |
| Approval | The award is approved by the Secretary of the Navy or the Commandant of the Marine Corps |
| Presentation | The award is presented to the individual in a formal ceremony |
