The Iron Cross 2nd and 1st Class was instituted as an Order on 1 Sep 1939.
The Iron Cross 2nd Class is abbreviated EK2.
The Iron Cross 1st Class is abbreviated EK1.
The Iron Cross is an old award, dating back to the time of the liberation war against Napoleon in 1813.
The Iron Cross could be awarded for a number of reasons, to include exceptional merit, successful military planning, exceptional leadership
and meritorious work done by members under the command of the recipient.
Approximately 3,000,000 EK2's were awarded to members of the Wehrmacht, SS, civilians and to members of other axis armies during World War II.
The Iron Cross 1st Class is awarded in a black award box, along with a certificate.
The 1st Class medal is worn on the left breast pocket
2nd Class requirements are:
• Single act of bravery above and beyond the call of duty
1st Class requirements are:
• Awarded the Iron Cross 2nd Class
• 3-5 acts of bravery above and beyond the call of duty