It was a golden cross and starburst on a crimson, blue and white ribbon. The first ever PMV was awarded posthumously to Commodore Edward Saganami, after his heroic sacrifice while defending a convoy in the Battle of Carson. (SI1) It was slightly higher in prestige than the Manticore Cross. (HH1, HH2) A recipient of the PMV was traditionally entitled to a salute from anyone who was not a recipient, even if those saluting outranked the holder. (HH9)