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What is the Danish name for the Valour Cross?

In the Danish language, this medal is known as the Tapperhedskorset. The name translates directly to the Valour Cross. Queen Margrethe II officially created this honor on November 14, 2011, to recognize the most heroic actions taken by soldiers.

When was the first Valour Cross given out?

The very first medal was presented in late 2011. It was given to a brave army sergeant who served his country. He earned this high honor by risking his own life while under heavy fire from the enemy to save his fellow soldiers.

What does the ribbon look like?

The medal hangs from a white ribbon. On this ribbon, there is a red cross that matches the design of the Danish national flag. This special look connects the bravery of the soldier directly to the country they serve.

Can allied soldiers from other countries receive it?

Yes, soldiers from other countries are allowed to earn this medal. This rule applies to allied military members who are working side-by-side with Danish troops during a mission. It recognizes that courage in battle is important no matter which country a soldier is from.

Is the Valour Cross awarded often?

No, it is a very rare award that is not given out often. It is the top military prize in Denmark and is reserved only for acts of extreme courage. A soldier must knowingly put their own life in danger to help others before they can be considered for this honor.

What is the Danish name for the Valour Cross?

In the Danish language, this medal is known as the Tapperhedskorset. The name translates directly to the Valour Cross. Queen Margrethe II officially created this honor on November 14, 2011, to recognize the most heroic actions taken by soldiers.

When was the first Valour Cross given out?

The very first medal was presented in late 2011. It was given to a brave army sergeant who served his country. He earned this high honor by risking his own life while under heavy fire from the enemy to save his fellow soldiers.

What does the ribbon look like?

The medal hangs from a white ribbon. On this ribbon, there is a red cross that matches the design of the Danish national flag. This special look connects the bravery of the soldier directly to the country they serve.

Can allied soldiers from other countries receive it?

Yes, soldiers from other countries are allowed to earn this medal. This rule applies to allied military members who are working side-by-side with Danish troops during a mission. It recognizes that courage in battle is important no matter which country a soldier is from.

Is the Valour Cross awarded often?

No, it is a very rare award that is not given out often. It is the top military prize in Denmark and is reserved only for acts of extreme courage. A soldier must knowingly put their own life in danger to help others before they can be considered for this honor.

Home Library DenmarkValour Cross

Valor decoration

Valour Cross

The Valour Cross is Denmark's highest military medal awarded for extraordinary bravery in combat.

Denmark Established 2011 All servicesPrecedence: 1st among military service decorations, worn before the Defence Medal for Bravery

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for extraordinary courageous actions in combat where the person knowingly risked their life to help others.

Eligibility

Danish military personnel and allied soldiers serving alongside Danish forces.

Branch

All services

Precedence

1st among military service decorations, worn before the Defence Medal for Bravery

Valour Cross, Valor decoration, Denmark medal

History

Queen Margrethe II created the Valour Cross on November 14, 2011. Denmark needed a special medal to honor extreme acts of bravery on the battlefield, similar to the British Victoria Cross or American Medal of Honor. Danish troops had seen heavy fighting in places like Afghanistan and Iraq, making a top gallantry medal necessary.

Before 2011, Denmark used the Defence Medal for Bravery for combat heroism, but the Valour Cross was placed above it as the supreme valor award. The medal was presented for the first time in late 2011 to a soldier who risked his life under direct enemy fire to protect his team.

Today, the Valour Cross remains Denmark's highest combat award. It is made of silver and worn on a white ribbon with a red cross, symbolizing the Danish flag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

War in AfghanistanIraq War

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Thomas M. Rathsack, including Defence Medal for Excellent Service, Defence Medal for International Operations, Army Long Service Medal, Defence Medal for Bravery, Valour Cross, shown against a light Denmark flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

Afghanistan

Defence Medal for Excellent Service Defence Medal for International Operations Army Long Service Medal+2

Thomas M. Rathsack

Who Was Thomas Rathsack?

A highly decorated Danish Special Forces operator serving in Afghanistan.

Denmark2002-01-01

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Sources

Back to Denmark