Gold Lion

The Gold Lion is a military award typically given to non-commissioned and commissioned officers for "outstanding acts of leadership," but may also apply to any soldier who displayed "skill and valor on the field of battle directly resulting in victory." Unlike the Medal of Valor and the Alliance Service Cross above it, the Gold Lion's criteria includes mention of military victory on the battlefield, rather than just depending on individual acts of extraordinary heroism and gallantry. For this reason, as previously mentioned, the award is usually given to those in leadership positions in the Grand Alliance Army.

The Gold Lion is part of a three-tiered system, with the Silver Shield and the Brass Shield being the two lesser grades beneath it. In addition, it is rare for a Gold Lion to be given as the first award in the tier system. Most award recipients 'build up' from a Silver or Brass Shield, arriving at a Gold Lion after receiving multiple previous awards.

General Information
To be considered for the Gold Lion, a soldier must be nominated by their commanding officers. This nomination is then assessed by Alliance High Command, using the following criteria: Upon receiving a Gold Lion, soldiers treat the award as they would any other under military regulations. The Gold Lion, along with other awards, may be worn if specifically called for, such as during formal events or parades. Instructions are usually provided on whether awards may be worn in uniform, in civilian dress, or by veterans of the armed forces. However, awards are not allowed while in combat dress.
 * The soldier must have shown exceptional and outstanding leadership, initiative, personal skill, valor, and courage on the battlefield.
 * The soldier must have been involved in an action that facilitated or ensured a military victory for the Grand Alliance or its allies.

History
The Gold Lion was based on an old Stormwind military award, then known as the Order of the Golden Lion. It was awarded for similar criteria during the First War, but it was not used during the Second War. By the Third War, with the reconstruction of the Kingdom of Stormwind and the creation of the new Grand Alliance, the Order of the Golden Lion was reintroduced in the Stormwind Royal Army. However, as Alliance High Command moved to standardize military awards for all member nations, they adopted the Order of the Golden Lion, shortened the name, and retained the award's criteria.