Awards of
World War IIThe Commemorative Medal of Voluntary Service in Free France (French: Médaille commémorative des services volontaires dans la France libre) became a military award for volunteers, established by decree on April 4, 1946.
General Edgard de Larminat proposed creating an award for Free French volunteers who fought against the Axis powers on all fronts during World War II. The Free French forces numbered only 7,000 fighters in July 1940, and by 1942 they had grown to approximately 70,000. They were particularly active in the fighting in North Africa, and subsequently formed the backbone of the 1st Free French Division, which played an active role in the Italian campaign of 1944 and the liberation of Paris in August 1944.
In addition, the Free French had their own navy and air force, albeit small, which took part in most of the important battles of the anti-Hitler coalition. By 1944, the Free French forces numbered about half a million, and in 1945, they crossed the million mark.
The Commemorative Medal for Service in the Free French Forces became an award for both military and civilians, regardless of their nationality:
Those who signed a volunteer contract with the Free French forces before August 1, 1943 (for military personnel);
Those who entered service in the territories controlled by the National Committee in London before August 1, 1943 (for civilians).
The award is made of bronze and silver-plated, in the shape of the Cross of Lorraine, measuring 36-40 mm in height (excluding the suspension ring) and 32 mm in width. The obverse features a two-line relief inscription "FRANCE LIBRE" (Free France). The reverse bears two dates: June 18, 1940 and May 8, 1945.
The Free French Service Medal is attached to a 32 mm wide, dark blue silk moiré ribbon. A diagonal red stripe, 2 mm wide, with a 4 mm distance between the stripes.
In addition to the certificate, the medal also came with a scroll signed by Charles de Gaulle, with the following text: "In response to France's call for a mortal danger, you rallied to the Free French forces. You were among those in the forefront, enabling them to achieve final victory! At the moment when the goal is achieved, I wish to thank you as a friend, in the name of France! September 1, 1945."