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LEGION OF HONOR
(LÉGION D'HOnNeuR)
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The French Legion of Honor (Légion d'honneur) is France’s highest order of merit, established by Napoleon Bonaparte on May 19, 1802. It was created to recognize exceptional military and civil achievements in service to France, regardless of birth or social status—a radical departure from the hereditary orders of the monarchy. The order is divided into five ranks: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), Commandeur (Commander), Grand Officier (Grand Officer), and Grand-Croix (Grand Cross). Its distinctive red ribbon and white-enameled Maltese cross have become enduring symbols of honor and valor.
During and after World War II, the French government awarded the Legion of Honor to many foreign nationals who contributed to the liberation of France. Among them were many American veterans who participated in D-Day, the Normandy Campaign, and other key operations on French soil.
One of these recipient was Charles H. Coolidge. In recognition of his role in the liberation of France, he was named a Chevalier of the French Legion of Honor in a 2006 ceremony, linking his legacy to one of France’s most prestigious and historic distinctions. The honor symbolizes the enduring gratitude of France toward those who fought for its freedom and the lasting alliance between the French and American peoples.
Citation
June 21, 2006
The President of the French Republic
Grand Master of the National Order of the Legion of Honor
named, by decree of this day, Mr. Charles H. Coolidge
Veteran combatant of the Second World War, Infantryman in the 141st Regiment of the 36th Infantry Division of the American National Army
CHEVALIER OF THE LEGION OF HONOR.
Made in PARIS, June 21, 2006.
Sealed by the seal of the Order under no. 330 LHE 06,
The Deputy Secretary General
and By the President of the Republic:
The Grand Chancellor of the Legion of Honor
GENERAL KELCHE
CEREMONY
Chattanooga, Tenn., Sept. 15, 2006 — In heartfelt recognition of his valor in the liberation of France during World War II, Medal of Honor recipient Charles H. Coolidge (85) was presented with France’s highest distinction, the Légion d’honneur, in a ceremony at Coolidge Park in downtown Chattanooga. Consul General of France and Trade Commissioner Philippe Ardanaz presented the award to Coolidge on behalf of Jacques Chirac, President of France.
The event took place on Friday, September 15, 2006, at Coolidge Park, the waterfront green space on the North Shore of the Tennessee River named in his honor. In addition to the Consul General of France, there were many notable dignitaries, friends, and family members in attendance including the Honorable Ron Littlefield, Mayor of Chattanooga, the Honorable Claude Ramsey, the Mayor of Hamilton County, and Brigadier General (retired) Carl Levi.
For Coolidge, the award symbolized France’s gratitude for his actions in October 1944 east of Belmont-sur-Buttant, France, while serving with the 36th Infantry Division. For the community of Chattanooga and Signal Mountain, the ceremony reaffirmed his status as a hometown hero and linked the local memorial landscape with international recognition.
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Mary Coolidge Cissna (Charles' sister), Charles, and Frances (Charles' wife) after his Legion of Honor Ceremony.
The Coolidge Family and the Consul General of France with Charles Coolidge after the ceremony.