- Time Period: Interwar Period
- Institution: 14 August 1934
- Country: United States
The New York City Police Department Combat Cross is the second highest departmental award of the NYPD. It was established in 14 Augusta, 1934, and awarded to police officers who, “having received Honorable Mention awards, successfully and intelligently perform an act of extraordinary heroism while engaged in personal combat with an armed adversary under circumstances of imminent personal hazard to life”.
The Police Combat Cross was first awarded July 19, 1934, to six members of the police department for heroic service in the previous year. More than two hundred members of the New York Police Department have been awarded the Police Combat Cross.
The New York City Police Department Combat Cross Design
The medal is a gold Maltese Cross with the seal of New York City set in the center obverse and surrounded by the inscription, “For Valor, Police“. The name of the holder and the year of awarding are engraved on the reverse.
The cross is suspended by a ring from green silk ribbon. If the Combat Cross is awarded a second time, a gold palm leaf is set in the center of the ribbon.
More New York City Police Department Medals
NYPD medals are awards presented by the New York City Police Department to recognize and honor the bravery, service, and exceptional achievements of its officers. These medals serve as symbols of honor and pride within the NYPD, highlighting the commitment and sacrifice of its members in safeguarding the communities they serve.
The New York City Police Department Medal of Valor
The New York City Police Department Medal of Valor is the department’s third highest medal, conferred for acts of outstanding bravery.
The New York City Police Department Medal of Honor
The New York City Police Department Medal of Honor is the highest law enforcement medal of the NYPD and awarded for extraordinary bravery.
