History

The War Cross (1914-1918) was created on April 8, 1915. A total of 2 065 000 Medals were awarded.

It was awarded to all military personnel who had received a citation for a feat of arms. It could also be awarded to entire ships and to entire towns and villages that had been bombarded or destroyed by enemy attacks.

The cross had five possible ribbon clasps. A bronze star clasp was awarded for a citation at the unit, brigade, or regimental level, a silver star clasp was awarded for a citation at the divisional level, a gilt star was awarded for a citation at the Army Corps level, a bronze palm was awarded for a citation at the Army level, a silver palm replaced five bronze palms.

The obverse inscription translates to “French Republic.”

There are four different versions which differ in the years inscribed on the reverse medallion. There may also be additional versions that differ in composition, size, or manufacturer.