Iron Cross
Criteria
The Iron Cross was awarded to members who had shown a long history of dedicated commitment and loyalty to the Vast Empire Navy while greatly improving the fleet. The acts of service must have been so notable and so extraordinary as to set the individual apart from his or her comrades. This medal could be awarded only by the Naval Commander in Chief or Executive Officer. Usually, those who have been awarded the Iron Cross have served in the navy for a significant period of time, have had very high personal activity, and have inspired those around them to reach new heights. Compared to the upper echelon of medals, this was the intermediate award for this kind of achievement with those who have done even more, for a longer period of time, being eligible for the honour of the Knight's Cross or even the Imperial Grand Cross.
Description
The Iron Cross is instantly recognizable for its bold, simple design. Following the literal meaning of the name, it is the only medal that is made of iron. The medal is made entirely of cast-iron with a cross in the shape of an X over a round medal in the shape of the Imperial logo. The ends of the cross do not extend pass the edges of the medal and the ends are pointed, resembling blades of a sword. The background of the medal is made of cast-iron but painted imperial blue and the ribbon is silver in colour. The First Class award has a small blue sapphire in the middle of the cross.
Abbreviation: Iron Cross First Class [IC1] Iron Cross Second Class [IC2]
