History

The Cross was awarded to those who served in the Voluntary Reserves of the French Armed Forces. It was replaced by the Order of Military Merit on March 22, 1957, and the recipients of the Cross were named to the new Order. A new Medal intended for Armed Force Reservists was created in 1975.

It was also awarded to active duty Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers who participated in the instruction and training of these units. The Bronze Cross was awarded for 6 years of service, the Silver Cross for 12 years of service, and the Gold Cross for 18 years of service.

Crosses for Naval Reservists were worn with anchor clasps made in the metal of the corresponding grade. Crosses for the Air Army Reservists were surmounted by small eagles.

There are two versions of the Cross. The first version has an octagonal centre medallion and the second version has a rhombus-shaped centre medallion. The obverse inscription on both versions translates to “French Republic,” and the reverse inscription translates to “Military Volunteer Service.”