Cross of Independence (Polish: Krzyż
Niepodległości) was second highest Polish military decorations between
World Wars I and II. It was awarded to individuals who had "fought
heroically for the independence of Poland," and was released in three
versions.
The
Cross of Independence was established with a decree of the President of
Poland of 29 October 1930. It was to be awarded to the people who laid
foundations for the independence of the Fatherland before the World War
or during it, as well as during the fights between 1818 and 1921, with
the exception of the Polish-Russian War. After 1938 it was also awarded
to people responsible for the reunification of Zaolzie with Poland.