Distinguished Intelligence Cross

The Distinguished Intelligence Cross is awarded by the Central Intelligence Agency for "a voluntary act or acts of extraordinary heroism involving the acceptance of existing dangers with conspicuous fortitude and exemplary courage." This award is the CIA's equivalent to the Medal of Honor and like the Medal of Honor is often awarded posthumously. Only a few dozen individuals have been awarded this medal in the history of the CIA, making it one of if not the rarest award for "Valor" in the United States. The CIA has two awards for Valor, the other is the Intelligence Star, which is analogous to the U.S military's Silver Star.