Navy Cross

noun

: a U.S. Navy decoration awarded for extraordinary heroism in operations against an armed enemy

Examples of Navy Cross in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Doris Miller was an African American sailor who fought attacking Japanese forces during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, for which he was awarded the Navy Cross—the second highest military decoration. Ryan Chan, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024 The World War II tank commander and recipient of the Navy Cross, the military’s second-highest recognition for valor, was one of the first service members exposed to a contaminated water supply at Camp Lejeune. Melissa Chan, NBC News, 5 Oct. 2024 In recognition of the pilots’ sacrifice, the government awarded Joe Jr. and Willy the Navy Cross, the second-highest military decoration. Meilan Solly, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 Aug. 2024 Team leader Jason Hayes had disclosed — at his Navy Cross ceremony, no less — his TBI and compromised state on recent missions, after which he was called on the carpet by superiors. Matt Webb Mitovich, TVLine, 7 Aug. 2024 But Gallagher’s selflessness led to him being awarded the Navy Cross, the second-highest military decoration that can be conferred on a sailor or a Marine. Gary Robbins, The Mercury News, 30 July 2024 During his career, Dealey also received a Navy Cross, two Gold Stars, and the Distinguished Service Cross. Stephen Smith, CBS News, 24 May 2024 His commendations included the Navy Cross, the Silver Star and, for wounds received while leading a rifle platoon, two Purple Hearts. Steve Chawkins, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2024 Ceremony salutes Korean War fighter pilot The Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial will hold a Veteran Honor Ceremony 10 a.m. Thursday June 22 to recognize the service of North County resident Capt. E. Royce Williams, 98, a Korean War flying ace, who received the Navy Cross. Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 June 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Navy Cross was in 1919

Dictionary Entries Near Navy Cross

Cite this Entry

“Navy Cross.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Navy%20Cross. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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