The Legion of Honor Medal is France’s most prestigious award. It can be earned by French citizens for feats of military victory and bravery. The French Legion of Honor can also be awarded to French and some foreign civilians for honorable deeds done for France. This award was first created by Napolean Bonaparte on May 20, 1802 in order to establish an elite group of men of honor to be recognized and rewarded for their military service to their country.

    There are three different ranks that can be awarded: Chevalier, Officier and Commandeur and two additional honorable titles (Grand Officier and Grand'Croix). The award winners among French citizens in the military and French civilians are listed in the newspaper, Le Journal Officiel. It is rare for a foreigner to receive this award and even more rare for a woman.