Cross of Valour | |
---|---|
Type | State decoration |
Awarded for | Acts of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme peril[1] |
Presented by | The monarch of Canada |
Post-nominals | CV |
Status | Currently awarded |
Established | 1 May 1972 |
First awarded | 20 July 1972 |
Last awarded | 4 May 2006 |
Created by | Elizabeth II |
Total | 20[2] |
Total awarded posthumously | 5[2] |
Precedence | |
Next (higher) | Victoria Cross |
Next (lower) | Order of Merit[3] |
The Cross of Valour (French: Croix de la vaillance) is a decoration that is, within the Canadian system of honours, the second-highest award (surpassed only by the Victoria Cross), the highest honour available for Canadian civilians, and the highest of the three Canadian Bravery Decorations. Created in 1972, it is presented to individuals, both Canadian and foreign, living and deceased, who have performed acts of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme peril. Recipients are allowed to use the post-nominal letters CV.[1][4]