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.
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.
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 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 (Insigne des blessés civils) is a French distinction for civilians injured or maimed as a result of war.
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 is a French decoration for those who have volunteered to serve in a unit during World War I.
The French Victory Medal was established on 20 July 1922 and awarded to all soldiers who served three months between 1914 and 1918.
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 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 (Insigne des blessés civils) is a French distinction for civilians injured or maimed as a result of war.
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 is a French decoration for those who have volunteered to serve in a unit during World War I.
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 (Croix de guerre) is a French military decoration for French and allied soldiers for valorous service during WW1.
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 was a French military medal awarded for participation in the battles against the Central Powers 1915-1918.
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 was a military decoration awarded to civilians who suffered during the German invasion of France.
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 is a French military medal awarded for participation in the Battle of the Dardanelles or Gallipoli campaign.
The 1914–1918 Commemorative war medal was awarded to soldiers, sailors, and some civilians for service in World War I.
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.
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.