The Distinguished Service Cross is awarded to naval personnel, from Warrant Officer to Lieutenant, for the performance of meritorious or distinguished services before the enemy. In 1939, Commanders and Lieutenant Commanders were also made eligible for the DSC. Members of the air force or army serving with the fleet are also eligible. The award was originally established in June 1901 as the Conspicuous Service Cross and changed to the Distinguished Service Cross in October 1914.
Bars to the award are silver, with a crown in the centre, and are convex at the ends of the arms.
A total of 199 DSCs have been awarded to Canadians, with 34 first and 5 second bars.
