France Legion d´Honneur and Med Militaire

[aubagne98]

Hi there,

before WW1 the LH and the MM was given to the miltaires who had shown bravery in combat, because there was no Croix de guerre.

Was it at this time equal to today that the MM only was givtn to militaires du rang and NCOs?

And the LH only to officers?

Michael

[Bison]

Hi

The Légion d'honneur has always been given for bravery AND for outstanding distinguished service. Therefore, it is not reserved for officers, and is also awarded to NCOs and enlisted.

The last two French privates killed in action in Central Africa have been awarded the LH some weeks ago.

However, the Médaille Militaire is exclusively reserved for NCOs and enlisted for distinguished military services. The only exceptions are the general officers who are grand-cross of the Légion d'honneur and who have been commanders in chief in operation.

Regards

[aubagne98]

Hi Bison,

Thanks for that information!

Michael

Edited January 5, 2014 by aubagne98