When did King Richard 1st first use st george's cross?

King Richard I, also known as Richard the Lionheart, is often associated with St. George's Cross, but its use became prominent during the Crusades in the late 12th century. While Richard didn't officially adopt it as a national emblem, it is believed that he used the cross during the Third Crusade (1189-1192) as a symbol of Christian valor. The cross later became associated with England and was officially adopted as the national flag in the 14th century.