French Légion d'honneur

---

France's Légion d'honneur was established by Napoleon Bonaparte when he was First Consul in 1802 to acknowledge outstanding military and civil service. It is currently France's premier order and is conferred for gallantry in action or for twenty years' distinguished military or civilian service in peace. The Order can be bestowed on foreigners. When given for war services it carries with it the automatic award of the Croix de Guerre with palm.

The Order is divided into five grades "Grands Croix", "Grands Officiers", "Commandeurs", "Officiers" and "Chevaliers".

Canadian Aces Home Page

Images From:
Medal image courtesty of The Aerodrome.
For more information on this and other French medals see: Orders of Chivalry of France.