It recognizes more and more the role of non-profit organizations end employees, the life achievements of persons of modest origins, and the place of women through strict gender parity in each civilian awardees class. The Legion of Honor belongs to its time and adapts to changes in society. The military has its own rules for wearing insignia.

Pendants and small-size decorations are preferred for official ceremonies. On informal attire, one wears lapel insignia (ribbon or rosette).

The Legion of Honor is worn before any other French or foreign insignia, on the left-hand side. On the obverse is the effigy of the Republic and on the reverse two tricolor flags surrounded by the motto 'Honneur et Patrie' (Honor and Fatherland). The badge is a five-armed Maltese asterisk hung on an oak and laurel wreath. The exclusion measure is announced by decree. The honor can be revoked in the event of criminal conviction, or any action that is dishonorable or that may harm the interests of France. A special Medal of Honor pension of 1,406.73 (effective date: December 1, 2020) per month above and beyond any other benefits including pensions. In this very rare case of refusal, the relevant individuals choose not to receive the decoration. Do Medal of Honor recipients retire Medal of Honor recipients receive these benefits for life: Added to the Medal of Honor Roll. Turning down the Legion of Honor implies prior admittance to the Order, by decree published in the Official Journal. In their case, we cannot speak of refusal. Some people express their objection in principle to the Legion of Honor though they have not received it. The Legion of Honor cannot be applied for.įrench ministers are responsible for identifying potential honorees, relying on the societal network (parliamentarians, mayors, employers, leaders of trade unions or non-profit organizations, presidents of professional or sports federations.). Some 313 foreigners can be awarded this honor every year but, unlike French nationals, they are not members of the Legion of Honor. Every year a maximim of 2,550 people can be inducted, in a military capacity or as civilians. Twenty years of activity at least are required to qualify for the Legion of Honor. However, it is an invaluable source of pride for the recipients and their families and an example of civic service made public.Īny French citizen with no criminal record, who has demonstrated outstanding merits in the service of the nation, in a military or a civilian capacity. For two centuries, it has been presented on behalf of the Head of State to reward the most deserving citizens in all fields of activity.Īs an honor, the Legion of Honor does not include any actual material or financial benefit. The Legion of Honor is the highest French decoration and one of the most famous in the world.

Do medal of honor recipients get paid