History

The Cross of Merit for Bravery was established by the President of the Republic in 1928 as an extension of the Cross of Merit. It was not awarded by the Polish People's Republic, but it was re-established in 1992 by the Republic of Poland following the collapse of the communist regime.

It is awarded to members of the Border Guard, the Internal Security Agency, the Military Intelligence Service, police officers, and military personnel in recognition of life-saving actions. It may be awarded to the same recipient multiple times, in which case each additional award is denoted by a silver bar clasp on the ribbon.

The Silver Cross features an obverse inscription that translates to "For Bravery."

The Cross of Merit for Bravery is also listed in the Medals & Decorations of the Second Polish Republic (1918-1939) and the Government of the Republic of Poland in exile (1939-1989).