History

This Cross was awarded to Latvians and foreigners for meritorious services within civil and military realms.

Recipients were recognized for rendering service within the development of the military, patriotic endeavours, and championing public order and national security.

The Cross has links to the historical Order of Recognition, which was established by Elizabeth Sofia to commemorate her late husband.

The Cross was discontinued in 1940 when Latvia fell under the control of the Soviet Union, but it was re-established in 2004.

The modern Cross continues to be conferred upon foreigners and Latvians in recognition of merit in the civil and military realms, including merit in the sciences, arts, sports, public service, and education.