What is the Navy Cross Awarded For?
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 for extraordinary heroism while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States. The award is equivalent to the Army Distinguished Service Cross and the Air Force Cross.
History of the Navy Cross
The Navy Cross was established on February 4, 1919, by an act of Congress, signed by President Woodrow Wilson. The award was created to recognize and honor those who have distinguished themselves by extraordinary heroism while serving in the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard.
Criteria for the Navy Cross
The Navy Cross is awarded for extraordinary heroism, distinguished service, and exceptional achievements. The criteria for the award are as follows:
• Extraordinary Heroism: The act of heroism must be of a degree that is above and beyond the normal call of duty.
• Against an Enemy of the United States: The act of heroism must be performed while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States.
• Action Against an Enemy: The act of heroism must be performed while engaged in action against an enemy, which includes combat, battles, or other military operations.
Types of Awards
The Navy Cross is awarded in several ways:
• Medal: The Navy Cross is awarded as a medal, which is worn on the ribbon of the Purple Heart or the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.
• Streamers: The Navy Cross is also awarded as a streamer, which is displayed on the unit’s colors or flags.
• Posthumous Awards: The Navy Cross can be awarded posthumously to a member of the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard who has died as a result of their heroism.
Notable Recipients
Some notable recipients of the Navy Cross include:
• Naval Aviators: Chuck Yeager, the first person to break the sound barrier, and Joe Foss, the top Marine Corps ace of World War II.
• Underwater Demolition Teams: The first Navy SEALs, who were awarded the Navy Cross for their heroism during World War II.
• Marine Corps Raiders: The first Marine Corps Raiders, who were awarded the Navy Cross for their heroism during World War II.
• Coast Guard Heroes: Coast Guardsmen who have been awarded the Navy Cross for their heroism during peacetime and wartime.
Statistical Breakdown
Here is a statistical breakdown of the Navy Cross:
• Total Awards: Over 10,000 Navy Crosses have been awarded since its establishment in 1919.
• Branch Breakdown: The majority of Navy Cross awards have been awarded to members of the Navy (67%), followed by the Marine Corps (29%), and the Coast Guard (4%).
• Rank Breakdown: The majority of Navy Cross awards have been awarded to enlisted personnel (63%), followed by officers (34%), and warrant officers (3%).
• Conflict Breakdown: The majority of Navy Cross awards have been awarded for actions during World War II (44%), followed by the Vietnam War (23%), and World War I (15%).
Conclusion
The Navy Cross is a prestigious award that recognizes and honors the extraordinary heroism and achievements of members of the United States Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. The award is a symbol of the highest level of courage, bravery, and dedication to duty, and it is an honor that is cherished by those who have received it.
