| Iron Cross (Belgium) | |
|---|---|
&sq=&lang=en&file=File:Croix_de_Fer_2cl.jpg) Iron Cross 2nd class (obverse) | |
| Type | Combat award |
| Awarded for | Wounds received or bravery displayed during combat |
| Presented by | &sq=&lang=en&file=File:Flag_of_Belgium.svg){kind=small} Kingdom of Belgium |
| Eligibility | Belgian citizens |
| Status | No longer awarded |
| Established | 8 October 1833 |
| Total | ~1635 |
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The Iron Cross (French: Croix de fer, Dutch: IJzeren Kruis) was established by law in 1833[1] following the end of the Belgian Revolution to recognise serious wounds received and bravery in battle by Belgian citizens taking part in the fight for Belgian independence from the United Kingdom of the Netherlands between 25 August 1830 and 4 February 1831. A further royal decree of 22 August 1834 created a second class to the Iron Cross for award to all wounded combatants.[2] Due to the lower perceived importance of the second class award and discontent among recipients, the Iron Cross second class was short-lived and amalgamated to the Iron Cross first class by decree of 21 February 1835.[3] All recipients now received the (original) first class award.
- ^ "Law of 8 October 1833 creating the Iron Cross". Belgian Government. 1833-10-08.
{{cite web}}: Missing or empty|url=(help) - ^ "Royal decree of 22 August 1834 creating the Iron Cross 2nd class". Belgian Government. 1834-08-22.
{{cite web}}: Missing or empty|url=(help) - ^ "Royal decree of 21 February 1835 amalgamating the Iron Cross 1st and 2nd class". Belgian Government. 1835-02-21.
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