U.S. veterans who helped in the liberation of France during World War II could be eligible to receive the French Legion of Honor Medal in the future. This medal was previously only issued to WWI vets.

The French government has asked the secretary of Veterans Affairs for assistance in identifying qualified U.S. veterans for consideration in awarding this medal. It is not the responsibility of the Department of Veterans Affairs to select the veterans. VA only facilitates the communications with the veterans, if necessary.

The 10 French consulates in the United States will have involvement in the distribution of the awards in 2005, 2006, and later.

Those applying must have written documentation, which is normally a copy of his/her military separation order, DD214, and other official orders that verify their military history during combat. Members of the Army, Army Air Corps, Navy and Coast Guard who participated in one of the four major campaigns in the liberation of France (Normandy, Southern France, Northern France and the Ardennes) are eligible for this French award.

Any previous military awards such as the Congressional Medal of Honor, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, etc., would indicate meritorious actions during combat operations. Copies of these documents should be forwarded with the request for consideration to the French Legion of Honor to the Defence Attache, Embassy of France, 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007.

These French medals must be approved by the Legion of Honor Committee in Paris, France, after appropriate review. Approximately 100 French Legion of Honor Medals will be awarded each year in the United States at the home of each veteran or at a public ceremony during a patriotic holiday. These arrangements will be made after the awardees have been notified.

To find out more, call 853-2389 or contact the French Defense Attache at 202-944-6502 or by fax at 202-944-6538.

The National Order of the Legion of Honor, founded by Napoleon Bonaparte, recognizes eminent service to the Republic of France. The order has five ranks: Chevalier, Officier, Commandeur, Grand Officier and Grand Croix. Recipients of this honor are named by decree signed by the president of the Republic.

The insignia, first called a "star" or "eagle," then in 1814 a "cross," this medal was instituted by the decree of 22 Messidor, Year XII. After 150 years, the general aspect of the medal has not changed: a white enameled star of five rays on a wreath of leaves with a gold medallion in the center, ringed by blue enamel.