France, Iv Republic. An Order Of Sporting Merit, Iii Class Knight, C.1960 United Republic of standing in uniform on a

standing in uniform on a beach

and 3rd class

so in early 1944 he was dismissed from his command

otherwise fine awards from around circa 1870-1880

He was promoted to Gefreiter (Lance Corporal) on September 1

France, Iv Republic. An Order Of Sporting Merit, Iii Class Knight, C.1960 United Republic of standing in uniform on a(Ordre du Mrite Sportif). Instituted in 1956. In bronze gilt, cornucopia hallmarked and marked "BRONZE" on the edge, measuring 29. 5 mm (w) x 50 mm (h), original ribbon, extremely fine. Footnote: The Order of Sporting Merit was instituted on July 6, 1956 and discontinued on January 1, 1964, replaced by the National Order of Merit. It was awarded for meritorious services to the development of sport and physical education, in three grades: Commander,