The Knight Templar Cross of Honor (KTCH) award was approved in 1964 at the 49th Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America to be awarded to one member in each state each year, provided a Sir Knight is nominated.

The Commandery in which the nominee is a member shall nominate the award by a motion adopted by the Commandery, and the nomination must be submitted in writing and approved by the Grand Commander. The nomination shall be made only for exceptional and meritorious service rendered to the order, far beyond the call of duty, and beyond the service usually expected of an officer or member. No present or past elected grand officer of a Grand Commandery shall be eligible for the award, and no posthumous awards are given.