Military Cross of Merit

The Military Cross of Merit (Polish: Wojskowy Krzyż Zasługi), Navy Cross of Merit (Morski Krzyż Zasługi), Air Force Cross of Merit (Lotniczy Krzyż Zasługi) are military decorations awarded to members of the Polish Armed Forces.

The crosses with swords (z Mieczami) are conferred for meritorious service in combat operations against acts of terrorism at home or during military, peacekeeping or stabilization missions overseas; the crosses without swords are conferred for outstanding non-combat meritorious achievement or service.

[1] The crosses were established by the Law of 14 June 2007, which amended the Act of 16 October 1992, concerning medals and decorations.

[2] The crosses are presented by the President of Poland, on his own initiative or at the request of the Minister of Defence.

The crosses with swords are to be awarded no later than three years after the end of combat operations.