How Do You Get a Navy Cross?
The Navy Cross is the second-highest medal of valor that can be awarded to a member of the United States Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps for extraordinary heroism, distinction, and gallantry. The medal is a vital part of the Naval awards system, and it recognizes service members who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to perform valorous acts. In this article, we will guide you on how to get a Navy Cross, covering its history, eligibility criteria, nomination process, and other important details.
History of the Navy Cross
The Navy Cross was established by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1914 to honor sailors and Marines for conspicuous bravery and gallantry during combat. The medal is often referred to as the "Navy equivalent of the Medal of Honor." Initially, the medal was designed to recognize distinguished conduct, but its requirements were expanded in 1961 to include heroism that involved risk of life, with the award winner receiving a citation for exceptional performance.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Navy Cross, the service member must meet the following criteria:
• Combat Action: The action must have been taken in combat, providing relief to others, and risking the service member’s life.
• Volunteer Act: The action must have been taken by the service member as a volunteer, without being specifically directed by their commanding officer.
• Conspicuous Gallantry: The action must have involved conspicuous gallantry, extreme peril, or great determination and skill.
• Courage: The service member must have demonstrated conspicuous courage and bravery, distinguishing themselves above their comrades and unit.
Nomination Process
The nomination process for the Navy Cross is straightforward but rigorous. Here’s an overview of the steps:
• Unit Level: The service member’s commanding officer or senior-ranking officer is responsible for recommending them for the Navy Cross.
• Higher Command: The recommendation is submitted to the next higher echelon of command, typically the wing or task force level.
• NAVCOG: The Naval Personnel Command (NAVPERSCOM) reviews and consolidates all nominations received at the wing or task force level.
• Joint Board: The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) and the Joint Chiefs of Staff review the consolidated nominations and make final recommendations to the Secretary of Defense.
• SECNAV Approval: The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) reviews and signs off on the final nominations.
• Presentation: The medal is presented to the recipient by the CNO, SECNAV, or other senior Navy officers.
Types of Acts Warranting the Navy Cross
The Navy Cross is awarded for a variety of acts, including but not limited to:
- Acts of heroism while performing a rescue or retrieval mission
- Bravery and determination in the face of overwhelming odds
- Unwavering commitment to saving the lives of comrades and civilians
- Extreme danger or hardship in maintaining equipment, supplies, and support operations
- Innovation and quick thinking in avoiding potential catastrophes
- Demonstrated leadership, judgment, and decision-making during times of crisis
Award Criteria
Here is a breakdown of the Navy Cross award criteria in bullets:
• Meritorious Service: Consistent, meritorious, and distinguished service and outstanding conduct.
• Distinction: Distinctly higher or more commendable conduct than that which would otherwise be expected for successful completion of a task or duty.
• Valorous Conduct: Service and actions that demonstrate distinguished, meritorious, or exceptionally heroic conduct.
• Conspicuous Bravery: Actions and behavior that demonstrate conspicuous courage and bravery.
Nomination and Award Statistics
According to the Navy Awards Policy, here are some notable statistics:
• Award Statistics: Since the medal’s establishment, there have been over 25,000 Navy Cross medals awarded.
• Recipient Profile: The majority of recipients are junior enlisted service members (E-6 or below), with most serving in the Marine Corps or Navy.
• Frequency of Awards: Awards are relatively rare, with only about 1% of service members receiving the medal.
• Nomination Ratio: The nomination process can be competitive, with around 1 in 10 service members receiving a commendation medal.
Conclusion
The Navy Cross is the second-highest honor a service member can receive for their bravery and service to their country. The medal is awarded for extraordinary heroism, distinction, and gallantry, and it requires a rigorous nomination and award process. To receive a Navy Cross, the service member must demonstrate extraordinary valor and bravery, showcasing outstanding conduct and meritorious service. By following this guide, you have a better understanding of what it takes to get a Navy Cross and the level of excellence required to be awarded this prestigious medal.
Additional Resources
• Navy Awards Policy: A comprehensive guide to Navy and Marine Corps awards and decorations, including the Navy Cross.
• Navy Cross Statute: The official language outlining the criteria and guidelines for the Navy Cross medal.
• Navy Cross Nominations: A helpful guide to the nomination process and required documentation.
By studying the history, eligibility criteria, nomination process, and award criteria, service members can better understand what is required to receive a Navy Cross. Remember that this medal is the pinnacle of achievement for bravery and distinction in the United States Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps.
