Cross of Merit for Bravery (Poland)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Cross of Merit for Bravery
The current version of the Cross of Merit for Bravery
TypeSingle grade medal
Awarded forSelfless bravery in the defense of law, national borders, and the life and property of citizens in especially difficult circumstances
Country Poland
Presented bythe President of Poland
EligibilityPersonnel in the military or certain civilian agencies
StatusCurrently awarded
EstablishedMarch 7, 1928
ribbon bar (first version) ribbon bar (current version)
ribbon bars
(left: first version) (right: current version)
Precedence
Next (higher)Military Cross
Next (lower)Cross of Merit with Swords

The Cross of Merit for Bravery (Polish: Krzyż Zasługi za Dzielność) is a Polish medal awarded for selfless bravery in the defense of law, national borders, and the life and property of citizens in especially difficult circumstances.

It was established on March 7, 1928 as a military grade of the Cross of Merit. The medal was awarded until World War II and was not recognized by the post-war government. On October 16, 1992 the medal was reintroduced and is currently awarded to police officers, firefighters, and several military and civilian agencies involved in intelligence or security.

The obverse bears the words "Za Dzielność" (Polish: For Bravery) and the letters RP for Republic of Poland.