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Military Medals: Honor, History, and Heritage (2024 Guide)

Médailles militaires : Honneur, Histoire, et Héritage (Guide 2024) - Welkit

Military medals represent honorary distinctions awarded to members of the armed forces to recognize their bravery, service, or merit. They are worn with pride and symbolize commitment to the nation and military values. This article offers a detailed examination of military medals, with a particular focus on French distinctions.

History and Evolution of Military Medals

Origins and Evolution: Military medals have deep roots in history, dating back to Antiquity where similar distinctions were used to honor warriors. In France, the modern history of military medals begins with the creation of the Legion of Honor by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, designed to reward exceptional civil and military services to the nation.

Types of Military Medals

Conduct Medals: In France, the Military Medal is an honorary distinction that rewards non-officers for their bravery or exceptional service. Created in 1852 by Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte, it is today one of the highest French military distinctions.

Campaign Medals: Campaign medals are awarded to those who have participated in specific military operations. For example, the French Commemorative Medal was instituted to recognize participation in external campaigns.

Bravery Medals: The Cross of Military Valor is an example of a specifically French bravery medal. It is awarded for acts of bravery in operations against the enemy.

Criteria and Procedures for Awarding Military Medals

General Criteria: The criteria for awarding military medals in France vary depending on the medal. Generally, they require an act of bravery or exemplary service, sometimes confirmed by hierarchical recommendations.

Awarding Procedures: The awarding of medals follows a formal process where recommendations are evaluated by committees or honor councils before being approved by the Minister of Defense or even the President of the Republic, depending on the distinction.

Specific Military Medals by Country

France: The Legion of Honor remains the most prestigious of French medals, covering both civil and military contributions to the Republic.

United States: In the United States, the Medal of Honor is the highest military distinction, equivalent to the Legion of Honor in France, and is awarded for bravery beyond the call of duty.

United Kingdom: The Victoria Cross is the highest British military award for bravery, equivalent to the Cross of Military Valor in France.

Controversies and Reforms of Military Medals

Controversial Medals: Some medals can become sources of controversy, especially when they are perceived as being awarded unfairly. Reforms are sometimes necessary to adapt the awarding criteria to current ethical standards.

Historical Reforms: Reforms of military medals are often motivated by the need to align awarding criteria with contemporary values and ensure fair recognition.

Collection and Trade

Medal Collection: Collecting military medals is a popular hobby that requires in-depth knowledge of the medals and their history. Collectors must also be aware of the laws governing the sale and purchase of military decorations.

Authenticity and Evaluation: Authenticating medals is crucial for collectors. Medals can be evaluated based on their rarity, condition, and historical provenance.

Cultural and Psychological Impact

Medals in Literature and Cinema: Military medals are often depicted in literature and cinema, reflecting their cultural and symbolic importance in society.

Medals and Identity: Medals play a significant role in the identity of military personnel, symbolizing their commitment, bravery, and sacrifice.

The Role of Military Medals in Commemoration

Ceremonies and Commemoration Days: Medals are central during commemorative ceremonies, where they symbolize respect and honor for services rendered.

Monuments and Memorials: Medals are also represented in monuments and memorials, serving as permanent symbols of service and sacrifice.

Psychological Aspects

Medals and Troop Morale: Medals can have a profound impact on troop morale, reinforcing their sense of pride and recognition.

Medals and Resilience: They also play a role in the resilience of military personnel, allowing them to recognize and value the challenges they have overcome.

A Final Word...

Military medals are not just rewards for service rendered; they are emblems of dedication, courage, and honor that enrich both military and civilian culture. They remind us of the sacrifices necessary to maintain peace and security and remain powerful symbols of national recognition.

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