The Navy Cross is the second highest decoration, awarded for extraordinary heroism while serving in the U.S. Navy, or US. Marine Corps or US Coast Guard when operating under the department of the Navy.
Navy Cross
Criteria
History
Three criteria for the Navy Cross are:
•engaged in combat action against an enemy of the United States
•engaged in combat military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force
•engaged in armed conflict combat while serving with friendly forces when the United States is not a hostile party