History

The Medal of Honour for Railways is awarded to railway workers for long service or exceptional acts of courage. It was intended for all railway workers in France, overseas departments and territories, and other associated states. In 1936, the Medal of Honour for Railways in Overseas France was created to reward railway workers in colonies other than Indochina.

Originally there was only a Silver Medal. The Gilt Medal was added as a grade on March 13, 1919, and the Gold Medal was added on March 31, 1977. Today the Silver, Gilt, and Gold Medals are awarded for 25, 35, and 38 years of service, respectively.

There are four versions of the medal which differ in engraving. The first version, awarded from 1913-1939, has an obverse inscription that translates to “French Republic,” and a reverse inscription that translates to “Honour, Labour, Ministry of Public Works, Railroads.” The second version, awarded from 1939-1953, has an obverse inscription that translates to “Medal of Railroad Men.” The third version, awarded from 1953-1977, has an obverse inscription that translates to “French Republic,” and a reverse inscription that translates to “Medal of Honour of Railways.” The fourth version, awarded since 1977, has an obverse inscription that translates to “French Republic,” and a reverse inscription that translates to “Medal of Honour of Railways.”

There may be additional versions that vary in manufacturer or composition.

The first version was worn with a clasp in the shape of a locomotive. The highest grade of the fourth version is worn with a palm clasp.