GovWire

As a way of honouring and thanking those who fought and risked their lives to secure Frances liberation during the second World War and in conjunction with events to mark the 70th anniversary of the Normandy landings, the government of France advised that it wished to award the Legion dHonneur to surviving British veterans.

The award is not automatic and must be applied for, either by a veteran or someone on their behalf. The application form is available for living veterans, including personnel who operated in support of the landings during June 1944 and who have not already received this award from the French Government. In the section headed reasons justifying the proposal, details should be given of service in France or in support of the Normandy Landings for instance, those sea borne in the English Channel or air borne over France.

The Ministry of Defence administers the applications on behalf of the French Authorities. They are validated to ensure that the relevant criteria have been fulfilled and then they are passed to the French Authorities in London who subsequently endorse the names forwarded by the Ministry of Defence for appointment to the Order (LOrdre national de la Lgion dHonneur. An application is not successful until confirmed so by the French Authorities; if successful the manufacturing of the applicants award begins. Please be aware that in current circumstances this is a lengthy process and can take several months.

Submit the completed application electronically to: People-DSSec-DMETMailbox@mod.gov.uk

Postal applications are accepted but it is advisable to submit electronically as emailed applications will be dealt with immediately and you will receive confirmation of receipt.