How to Get a Navy Cross: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Navy Cross is the second-highest military decoration that can be awarded to a member of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. It is awarded for extraordinary heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States, and is typically awarded to individuals who have distinguished themselves through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to get a Navy Cross, including the eligibility criteria, the process of submitting a nomination, and the factors that are considered when awarding the decoration.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Navy Cross, an individual must meet the following criteria:
- Service in the United States Navy or Marine Corps: The individual must be serving in the United States Navy or Marine Corps at the time of the action that is being recognized.
- Combat or Operational Deployment: The individual must be deployed to a combat or operational zone at the time of the action that is being recognized.
- Extraordinary Heroism: The individual must have performed an act of extraordinary heroism, which is typically defined as an act of bravery that is above and beyond the call of duty.
The Process of Submitting a Nomination
The process of submitting a nomination for the Navy Cross is as follows:
- Initial Screening: The first step in submitting a nomination is to review the eligibility criteria and determine whether the individual meets the requirements for the award. If the individual does not meet the criteria, the nomination will not be submitted.
- Gather Supporting Documentation: The next step is to gather supporting documentation that demonstrates the individual’s actions and heroism. This may include written statements from witnesses, photographic evidence, and other supporting materials.
- Fill Out the Nomination Package: The nomination package should include a detailed description of the individual’s actions, as well as any relevant supporting documentation. The package should also include a certification from the commanding officer of the individual’s unit.
- Submit the Nomination: The nomination should be submitted to the awards board or the individual’s chain of command.
Factors Considered When Awarding the Navy Cross
When awarding the Navy Cross, the following factors are typically considered:
- Conspicuous Gallantry: The degree to which the individual displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the face of enemy action.
- Extraordinary Heroism: The degree to which the individual performed an act of extraordinary heroism.
- Risk of Death or Injury: The risk of death or injury that the individual faced during the action that is being recognized.
- Impact on the Outcome: The degree to which the individual’s actions had an impact on the outcome of the action.
Table: Key Factors Considered When Awarding the Navy Cross
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Conspicuous Gallantry | The degree to which the individual displayed conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the face of enemy action. |
| Extraordinary Heroism | The degree to which the individual performed an act of extraordinary heroism. |
| Risk of Death or Injury | The risk of death or injury that the individual faced during the action that is being recognized. |
| Impact on the Outcome | The degree to which the individual’s actions had an impact on the outcome of the action. |
Conclusion
The Navy Cross is a prestigious and highly respected award that recognizes extraordinary heroism and conspicuous gallantry in combat or operational situations. To be eligible for the award, an individual must be serving in the United States Navy or Marine Corps at the time of the action that is being recognized, and must have performed an act of extraordinary heroism. The process of submitting a nomination for the Navy Cross involves reviewing the eligibility criteria, gathering supporting documentation, filling out the nomination package, and submitting the package to the awards board or the individual’s chain of command. When awarding the Navy Cross, the factors considered include conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism, risk of death or injury, and impact on the outcome.
Additional Resources
For more information on the Navy Cross and the process of submitting a nomination, individuals can contact the awards board or the individual’s chain of command. Additionally, the following resources may be helpful:
- Department of the Navy Awards and Decorations Website: The Department of the Navy’s website provides detailed information on the Navy Cross and other awards and decorations.
- Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual: The Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual provides detailed guidance on the eligibility criteria, procedures, and regulations for awards and decorations.
- Navy and Marine Corps Awards Boards: The Navy and Marine Corps Awards Boards are responsible for reviewing nominations for awards and decorations, including the Navy Cross.
Summary
In conclusion, the Navy Cross is a prestigious and highly respected award that recognizes extraordinary heroism and conspicuous gallantry in combat or operational situations. To be eligible for the award, an individual must meet the eligibility criteria, including service in the United States Navy or Marine Corps, combat or operational deployment, and extraordinary heroism. The process of submitting a nomination involves reviewing the eligibility criteria, gathering supporting documentation, filling out the nomination package, and submitting the package to the awards board or the individual’s chain of command. By understanding the eligibility criteria and the process of submitting a nomination, individuals can better understand how to get a Navy Cross.
