History

The Medal of the Naval Cross (Medalha da Cruz Naval) was founded by the Portuguese government on October 11, 1985. It is awarded to Portuguese military personnel and civilians in recognition of exceptional contributions to the efficiency and prestige of the Portuguese Navy.

This Medal is one of the five private Medals founded by the Ministry of National Defence; these are the National Defence Medal, St. George Cross Medal, Medal of D. Afonso Henriques - Merit Army - and Aeronautical Merit medal. Each of these is eleventh in order of precedence.

Since its inception, it has consisted of four classes normally conferred based on the recipient rank, i.e., I, II, III, and IV Classes. Presumably, all the grades are awarded with a clasp features the Portuguese coat of arms.

The IV Class Medal is awarded to Serjeants and soldiers. It has an obverse inscription that can be translated to "Ability To Do Well."