Hitler required a series of awards to replace the non-combatant version of the Iron Cross, and to allow for rewarding contributions beyond the scope of the Iron Cross which were required in a modern mechanized war. Classes of the War Merit Cross were presented to civilians as well as military personnel who performed outstanding service in furthering the war effort. In fact, the award could even be given to a firm or company, such as a munitions factory or ship yard. Grades without swords were for contributions off the front lines, with swords for bravery which occurred not in the face of the enemy. Until 28.9.41 it was not permitted to wear presentations of the War Merit Cross and the corresponding level of the Iron Cross simultaneously, but this order was rescinded on that date.