The Mississippi National Guard Magnolia Cross honors Mississippi National Guard members who demonstrate excellence in carrying out duties of particular responsibility or significance on behalf of Mississippi and its welfare, in such a manner as to set themselves apart from their peers.
The Mississippi National Guard is composed of the Mississippi Army National Guard and the Mississippi Air National Guard. The Army component dates back to 1798, when a territorial militia took shape; it is currently headquartered in Jackson. The Air component traces its roots back to 1939, when the 153d Observation Squadron was formed; the Air component is now based in Jackson as well.
The ribbon is dark red with a thin vertical golden yellow stripe on each edge.