<\/p>\n
The Navy Cross medal was created shortly after World War I to recognize particularly heroic sailors. Prior to\u00a0February 4th, 1919<\/a>, there was only the Medal of Honor.<\/p>\n
What is the Navy Cross medal? Originally, the Navy Cross was the third-highest decoration in the Navy, following the Navy Distinguished Service Medal and the Medal of Honor.<\/p>\n
On August 7th, 1942, Congress changed the order of precedence. The Navy Cross became the second-highest award behind the Medal of Honor.<\/p>\n
On one side, the cross medal features a sailing ship framed by laurel leaves and berries. The opposite side has crossed anchors and “USN,” which stands for U.S. Navy.<\/p>\n
The attached navy blue ribbon has a white stripe down the middle. The blue represents the Navy, while the white stands for purity of selflessness.<\/p>\n
The Navy Cross is one of the highest honors that sailors, aviators, and Marines of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps can receive. If you’re\u00a0interested in joining<\/a>\u00a0the Navy, you should know about this prestigious award.<\/p>\n
Additionally, the act must occur while the recipient is in danger or while facing great personal risk. It must stand out compared to the actions of others of equal experience, position, etc.<\/p>\n
The Navy Cross has been awarded over six thousand times. Sadly, many of the recipients that demonstrated conspicuous heroism received the medal posthumously. The Navy Cross is certainly one of the most important Navy medals, and many would be proud to receive it.<\/p>\n
There are many heroes and recipients of the Navy Cross throughout our history. However, here are some of the more well-known names.<\/p>\n
Rear Admiral Roy Milton Davenport is the first recipient of the Navy Cross. He also has the highest number of them, having earned five during his years in the military.<\/p>\n
Lenah Higbee worked as a nurse in the Navy, and she was the first woman to receive the award.<\/p>\n
Doris \u201cDorie\u201d Miller served as a cook for the Navy during Pearl Harbor and was the first black man to earn the award. He helped move the mortally wounded captain and manned an anti-aircraft gun to fire at incoming Japanese planes despite being untrained with the weapon.<\/p>\n
You can view a\u00a0full list of all recipients<\/a>\u00a0of the Navy Cross based on conflict\/periods.<\/p>\n
Now you know a bit more about the Navy Cross medal, including its significance and some of the well-known recipients. As you can see, this medal is one of the highest honors someone can receive.<\/p>\n
Are you inspired by these stories and the history of this medal? If you’re ready to serve your country, find the\u00a0nearest Navy recruiter<\/a>\u00a0to learn more about what you can do.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"