Cross of Merit (Netherlands)
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On the 20th. of Februari 1941 the Dutch government in exile in London institited several new awards for braveru. The new way that wars were fought, with civilian resistance and he merchant navy in great peril made this neccassery. Amongst the new decorations was the "Cross of Merit", (Dutch: "Kruis van Verdienste") an award for " working in the interest of the Netherlands while faced with enemy actions and distinguishing oneself through valour and resolute behaviour.One did not have to be on the frontline to win this award.
The cross has often been awarded to those who managed to flee to England and to the armed resistance.It had not been awarded since the War in Korea but five Dutch soldiers fighting the Talibaan in Uruzgan were surprised to be awarded this WW II decoration in 2007.
Since 1941 some 2088 men and women , Dutchmen and foreigners have been awarded this cross.In case of repeated awards a large arabic "2" or "3" is pinned to the ribbon.
