It was originally created in 1916 for wartime meritorious service, but post-World War II became a peace-time medal reserved for officers.

The cross's arms bear the legend ΑΜΥΝΕΣΘΑΙ ΠΕΡΙ ΠΑΤΡΗΣ ("Defending the fatherland", a quote of Hector from the Iliad).

The 1916 version bore the legend ΕΛΛΑΣ 1916–1917 ("Greece 1916–1917") on the reverse (although some medals omit the date or the inscription altogether), while the current version bears the legend ΓΙΑ ΣΤΡΑΤΙΩΤΙΚΗ ΑΞΙΑ ("For Military Merit").

When worn as a ribbon bar, the circular wreaths were substituted by branches.

The 1974 version has only three classes, distinguished by a bronze, silver and gilded laurel branches.