History

The Order of the Dragon of Annam was founded by the Emperor of Annam, Dong-Khanh, on March 14, 1886. The Order became a colonial French order on May 10, 1896, and was awarded by the French State until May 5, 1950.

It was awarded for overseas service in Indochina of at least 3 years, or for service in colonial expansion. After 1934, the minimum service requirement was extended to 9 years.

The Order could be awarded by the French President or by the Emperor of Annam. To avoid confusion, the crosses awarded by the Emperor of Annam were suspended from red ribbons with yellow trim, and the crosses awarded by France were suspended from green ribbons with orange trim.

The Grand Officer Breast Star and the Grand Cross Breast Star are identical.

There is a great deal of variety in this Order, and as a result, decorations vary in size, composition, and manufacturer.