Medals from France from The Great War WW1
French Military Medals & Awards from 1914-1918.
France played a pivotal role in World War I, known as “The Great War,” which lasted from 1914 to 1918. As one of the major Allied powers, France was, in fact, deeply involved in the conflict, fighting against the Central Powers, primarily Germany and Austria-Hungary.
The French military was engaged in intense trench warfare on the Western Front, facing formidable German defenses. The Battle of Verdun in 1916 and the Battle of the Somme in 1916 were among the most significant and bloody battles fought by the French army. Despite heavy losses, France persevered and made crucial contributions to the Allied victory.
French soldiers demonstrated remarkable courage and resilience in the face of adversity, earning the nation a place of honor in the annals of military history. During WW1, more than eight million French citizens served – fighting bravely on the European battlefields. As a result, about 1.4 million died. On this page, you will find all military and campaign medals, awards, and decorations of France given during the Great War.
Featured WW1 French Medals,
Orders & Decorations
France awarded WW1 combatants several military medals, decorations, and awards. Explore the most renowned medals, orders, and decorations bestowed by France during the First World War below.
The Battle of Verdun Medal
The Medal of Verdun was issued for those serving on the Argonne and St Mihiel sectors between 1914 and 1918 during the Battle of Verdun.
The Insignia for Wounded Civilians
The Insignia for wounded civilians (Insigne des blessés civils) is a French distinction for civilians injured or maimed as a result of war.
The Combatant’s Cross
The Combatant’s Cross (or “Croix du combattant”) is a French decoration that recognizes those who fought in combat for France.
The Volunteer Combatant’s Cross 1914-1918
The Volunteer combatant’s cross 1914–1918 is a French decoration for those who have volunteered to serve in a unit during World War I.
The Inter Allied Victory Medal (France)
The French Victory Medal was established on 20 July 1922 and awarded to all soldiers who served three months between 1914 and 1918.
All Great War WW1 French Medals
France’s sacrifices and steadfastness during World War I are commemorated through various memorials, monuments, and military decorations, serving as enduring reminders of the nation’s valor and commitment to freedom.
The Battle of Verdun Medal
The Medal of Verdun was issued for those serving on the Argonne and St Mihiel sectors between 1914 and 1918 during the Battle of Verdun.
The Insignia for Wounded Civilians
The Insignia for wounded civilians (Insigne des blessés civils) is a French distinction for civilians injured or maimed as a result of war.
The Combatant’s Cross
The Combatant’s Cross (or “Croix du combattant”) is a French decoration that recognizes those who fought in combat for France.
The Volunteer Combatant’s Cross 1914-1918
The Volunteer combatant’s cross 1914–1918 is a French decoration for those who have volunteered to serve in a unit during World War I.
The Escapees’ Medal
The Escapees’ Medal is a military award bestowed to prisoners of war and who successfully escaped internment or died in their attempt.
The War Cross 1914-1918
The War Cross 1914-1918 (Croix de guerre) is a French military decoration for French and allied soldiers for valorous service during WW1.
The Inter Allied Victory Medal (France)
The French Victory Medal was established on 20 July 1922 and awarded to all soldiers who served three months between 1914 and 1918.
The Orient Campaign Medal
The Orient Campaign Medal was a French military medal awarded for participation in the battles against the Central Powers 1915-1918.
The Medal of French Gratitude
The Medal of French Gratitude is a French honour medal only awarded to civilians to express gratitude by the French government.
The Medal for Victims of the Invasion
The Medal for Victims of the Invasion was a military decoration awarded to civilians who suffered during the German invasion of France.
The Medal for Civilian Prisoners, Deportees and Hostages
The Medal for Civilian Prisoners, Deportees and Hostages of the 1914-1918 Great War is a commemorative medal awarded to French civilians.
The Dardanelles Campaign Medal
The Dardanelles campaign medal is a French military medal awarded for participation in the Battle of the Dardanelles or Gallipoli campaign.
The 1914–1918 Commemorative War Medal
The 1914–1918 Commemorative war medal was awarded to soldiers, sailors, and some civilians for service in World War I.
Further Reading About France, WW1 and WW2
Explore more about France’s pivotal role in World War I and World War II and delve into the rich history, key battles, political landscape, and the experiences of soldiers and civilians during these tumultuous periods.
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The Miracle of Dunkirk: The True Story of Operation Dynamo
$5.95 Get it from Amazon -
Feeding the Nation in World War II: Rationing, Digging for Victory and Unusual Food
$24.95 Get it from Amazon -
Bletchley Park’s Secret Source: Churchill’s Wrens and the Y Service in World War II
$27.36 Get it from Amazon -
A World Undone: The Story of the Great War, 1914 to 1918
$13.99 Get it from Amazon -
World War II at Sea: A Global History
$23.00 Get it from Amazon
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More French Medals
French medals extend beyond the pre-World War I era and encompass a vast array of historical and military distinctions. From the period before World War I to World War II campaign medals and honors recognizing bravery and service, these medals are emblematic of France’s enduring commitment to valor and honor.
