How to Get the Navy Cross Medal: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Navy Cross is the second-highest award that can be bestowed upon a member of the United States Navy, and it is awarded for extraordinary heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States. To get the Navy Cross medal, an individual must demonstrate extraordinary courage and heroism that goes above and beyond the call of duty. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get the Navy Cross medal.
Eligibility
- The Navy Cross is awarded to members of the United States Navy, including officers and enlisted personnel, for extraordinary heroism in the face of enemy forces.
- The medal can also be awarded to non-commissioned officers, sailors, and other service members who have demonstrated exceptional courage and heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States.
Types of Actions That Qualify for the Navy Cross
- Engagement with an Enemy: The individual must be engaged in action against an enemy of the United States, including enemy forces, vehicles, or vessels.
- Heroism: The individual must demonstrate extraordinary heroism, which can include acts of bravery, courage, and self-sacrifice.
- Exceptional Achievement: The individual must have achieved exceptional results in their actions, such as saving lives, rescuing comrades, or capturing enemy personnel.
Navy Cross Nomination Process
- Squadron Commanders and OICs: The Navy Cross nomination process starts at the squadron level, where squadron commanders and officer in charge (OIC) submit nominations to their commanding officer.
- Screening: The nominations are then screened by a reviewing officer to ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria.
- Final Recommendation: The final recommendation is submitted to the Secretary of the Navy for approval.
Navy Cross Application and Supporting Documentation
- Application: The application process typically starts with a command-level submission, where the commanding officer submits the nomination package to the Naval Academy.
- Supporting Documentation: The package should include supporting documentation, such as:
- Witness statements from fellow service members who witnessed the heroism.
- Reports from commanders and officers who have knowledge of the events.
- Photographs, videos, or other evidence of the heroism.
- Medical reports or other relevant documentation.
Navy Cross Selection Criteria
- Extrordinary Heroism: The individual must have demonstrated extraordinary heroism, as described above.
- High Degree of Risk: The individual must have acted in a situation where the risk of harm or injury was high.
- Consequential Effect: The individual’s actions must have had a consequential effect on the outcome of the mission or the enemy’s capabilities.
Timeline for Awarding the Navy Cross
- Submission Deadline: Nominations for the Navy Cross typically have a deadline for submission, which can range from 3-5 years after the date of the heroic act.
- Award Process: The award process typically takes 1-2 years after the submission deadline.
Additional Requirements for the Navy Cross
- Certificate of Approval: The award requires a certificate of approval from the Secretary of the Navy.
- Public Notice: The award is typically announced publicly, with the recipient’s name and photo published in official Navy publications.
Conclusion
Getting the Navy Cross medal is a rare and exceptional honor that requires extraordinary heroism and courage in the face of enemy forces. The Navy Cross nomination process starts at the squadron level, with a comprehensive application and supporting documentation required. The award is then reviewed by a reviewing officer and approved by the Secretary of the Navy. If you have been involved in a heroic act that meets the eligibility criteria, it is essential to document the event and submit a nomination package to the Naval Academy.
Table: Navy Cross Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Engagement with an Enemy | Engaged in action against an enemy of the United States |
| Heroism | Demonstrated extraordinary heroism, bravery, and self-sacrifice |
| Exceptional Achievement | Achieved exceptional results in actions, such as saving lives or capturing enemy personnel |
Bullet List: Supporting Documentation
- Witness statements from fellow service members
- Reports from commanders and officers
- Photographs, videos, or other evidence of heroism
- Medical reports or other relevant documentation
Table: Timeline for Awarding the Navy Cross
| Step | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Submission Deadline | 3-5 years after the date of the heroic act |
| Award Process | 1-2 years after the submission deadline |
| Certificate of Approval | Issued by the Secretary of the Navy |
| Public Notice | Award announcement published in official Navy publications |
