The Commemorative medal for voluntary service in Free France was awarded to all persons, civilian or military, French or foreign nationals: • having voluntarily contracted in the Free French Forces (including Free French air and naval forces) prior to 1 August 1943 (for soldiers); • having effectively served Free France on the territories controlled by the
National Committee in London and in foreign countries prior to 1 August 1943 (for civil servants). The medal was bestowed accompanied by an award certificate and was often accompanied by a scroll signed by General
Charles de Gaulle with the following message in French: "Answering the call of France in mortal peril, you rallied to the Free French Forces. You were of those who, in the front ranks, allowed it to win final victory! At the moment where the goal is attained, I want to thank you in friendship, simply, in the name of France! 1 September 1945." Upon application for the award, a committee would examine and confirm or deny membership in the Free French Forces. This committee, presided by a superior staff officer of the Free French Forces, was composed of: • an officer of each of the three services; • a representative of the
Merchant Navy; • a representative of the Ministry of the Colonies • a representative of civil services of the former National Committee in London; • a representative of
intelligence and action networks affiliated with the former National Committee in London; • a member of the office of the committee of the
Order of Liberation. ==Award description==