It could be awarded by the Bajoran Minister of Defense for acts of heroism, acts of merit, or meritorious service in a combat zone. In 2399 Sergeant Kanril Eleya and Crewman Borma Davos of the frigate RBS Kira Nerys were awarded the Silver Cross for their efforts to hold off an Orion Syndicate boarding party, during which they were both critically wounded. (B&S: "Nebula Surveys are Boring. Film at Eleven.")