History

The St. George Cross Medal (Medalha da Cruz de São Jorge) was founded by the Portuguese government on December 22, 2000. It has been rewarded to military personnel and civilians, both Portuguese and foreign, in recognition of exceptional contributions to the efficiency and prestige of the mission of the Portuguese Armed Forces.

This Medal is one of the five private Medals founded by the Ministry of National Defence; these are the National Defence Medal, Medal Navy Cross, 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 II Class Cross is awarded to Frigate Captains, Lieutenant Colonels, Lieutenant Captains, or Majors.

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