History

The War Merit Cross was established by Prince Leopold IV and was conferred upon military personnel who distinguished themselves in the First World War by demonstrating valour and merit on the battlefield. The cross was also conferrable upon civilians who rendered meritorious service to the Germany Army. Such tasks included caring for the sick and wounded, aiding the troops, and performing official or private tasks to benefit the war effort.

The Cross for Combatants and the Cross for Non-Combatants were worn on different ribbons.

Women were eligible to receive the award if they performed particularly meritorious services or acts. In this case, the cross would be worn on a bow ribbon.

The decoration could be awarded to a wide range of military personnel including, officers, non-commissioned officers, regimental staff, and enlisted men.