The Iron Cross is to be awarded without exception to all persons of the Army, Navy and the Home Guard, the members of the volunteer nursing units and to all other persons who offered their service to the Army or Navy or are designated as Army or Navy officers. The award will be made for every sacrifice made in the war. Further, all persons who earn it, by serving the needs of the German Empire and their allies at home, may receive the cross.

1. The donation of the Iron Cross, which has been renewed for this war, has to consist of two classes and one Grand Cross, as in former times. The decoration, as well as the ribbon, will remain unchanged. On the front will be the 'W' with the crown above, and the year 1914 will be placed in the lower arm.

2. The second class Cross will be worn on a black ribbon with white trim, in the buttonhole, if it has been awarded for combat. For awards at home, this Cross will be worn on a white ribbon with black trim. The first class is worn on the left breast and the Grand Cross at the neck.

3. The first class is only awarded if the second class has already been earned and is worn beside the latter one.

4. The awarding of the Grand Cross does not depend on the previous earning of a first or second class Cross. It can be awarded only for a decisively won battle in which the enemy had to leave his position, or for the independent and successful leadership of an army or navy contingent or for the conquest of a fortress, or for defending an important fortress.

All privileges in connection with the Military Honor Medal First and Second Class with the proviso of the constitutional regulations of the donation, pass over to the Iron Cross first and second class.

Documentary and with our own hand signature and the King's seal.

Berlin, 5 August 1914