Military Cross

The Military Cross can be awarded to commissioned officers of the substantive rank of Captain or below (therefore acting and temporary Majors are eligible) or Warrant Officers for distinguished and meritorious services in battle. In 1920, the terms were altered to clearly state the award was for gallant and distinguished services in action and that naval and air force officers could be awarded the cross for gallant and distinguished services on the ground.

Description

A plain silver cross, 1.75 inches across.

Obverse

On each arm of the cross is an Imperial Crown and in the centre of the cross is the Imperial and Royal Cypher of the reigning sovereign (GV, GVI, or EIIR).

Reverse

The reverse is plain with the year of the award engraved on the lower arm.

Mounting

The ring welded to the top of the cross is joined to the plain straight suspender ring by a small ring (3 rings).

Ribbon

A watered white ribbon (1.375 inches wide), with a central purple stripe (0.5 inches wide).

Dates

The Military Cross was established on 28 December 1914.

Issued

A total of 3,727 have gone to Canadians, with 324 first bars and 18 second bars.

There have been 67 Signals recipients of the MC and 7 Signals recipients of the first bar. Please see Military Cross - Signals Recipients for a listing of the individuals.