Ordre du Mérite Maritime
The Seeverdienstorden was founded on February 9, 1930 and awarded by the French President, those belonging to the merchant navy or have rendered outstanding services to the development of the merchant marine, ports, fishing and nautical sports. In wartime, the distinction can also be made for military merit.
Classes
The order consists of three classes
- Commander
- Officer
- Knight
In order to be awarded the Order, the person must be at least 30 years old and have done 15 years service for the merchant navy in addition to fulfilling the other criteria. Periods of service in the Navy can be credited. The ceremony will take place in three categories
- Category A: Seefahrendes personnel of the Merchant Marine
- Category B: Individuals who have made outstanding contributions in the development of the merchant marine, ports, fishing and nautical sports
- Category C: staff of the National Marine
The following quotas are coming to the award per calendar year:
1930-1946
1947-1963
From 2002
7
70
175
252
5
50
175
230
5
36
120
161
2
20
50
72
2
15
60
77
3
14
40
57
1
10
25
36
2
10
25
37
2
20
100
122
10
100
250
360
9
75
260
344
10
70
260
340
Foreigners who are awarded the Order are not subject to the quota.
Order decoration
The religious character is white enameled star with eight rays and the corners are shorter metal beams which are slightly ribbed. In the star center, an anchor is placed, on which lies the medallion. The Medallion of the head of the Française is shown. All around, in a blue enameled hoop REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE and the inscription in the lower part of the hoop two crossed laurel branches. The rear of the two-line inscription MERITE MARITIME and MARINE circumferentially MARC HANDE.
Carrying method
Is supported the Commander's Cross around your neck, Officer and Knight's Cross on ribbon on the left chest. On the officer a rosette ribbon is also attached.
The ribbon is dark ultramarine blue with green side stripes.
Others
Awards are made ( national holiday) in principle on January 1 and July 14. In exceptional cases, but it may be waived.
The award of the Seeverdienstordens 1963 adjusted during the reorganization of the French honors system and the Foundation of the National Order of Merit. By decree 88/2002 of 17 January 2002, the Order has been reintroduced.