Ribbon, France National Defence Medal (Bronze Class)

The National Defence Medal (French: "Médaille de la Défense nationale") is a French military decoration. It was created by Charles Hernu, Minister of Defence and established by decree on 21 April 1982. It rewards particularly honourable service rendered by military personnel for their participation in operational activities.

The award is made by decision of the military hierarchy, but the recipients must have achieved a personal minimum of:

• For the Bronze level: 1 year of service and accumulated 90 points.

 Exceptional circumstances

The medal can be awarded in any one of the three levels to:

• Military personnel on active duty or in reserves and civilians killed or injured in the line of duty.
• Active military or reservists which have distinguished themselves by the quality of their service.
• French civilians and foreign military personnel or civilians who have rendered honourable services particularly important to the defence of France.

Full size ribbon 38mm width

Miniature size ribbon 16mm width