History

The Order of Merit was initially established by French Government Mandate on January 22, 1922, but was retained and modified following Lebanon's Independence by the Code of Decorations Decree on June 12, 1959. The Order is conferred in 4 Classes, plus an Extraordinary and Grand Cordon Class, in recognition of outstanding service to the Lebanese government, exemplary acts of courage of high moral value, or for devotion to duty to the state. Long-standing public establishments and foreigners may also be eligible for the award.

The I Class Decoration is awarded to personnel of the rank of colonel and above who have served for a minimum of 30 years. The Decoration features a set of palm leaves superimposed on the top of the Medal below the suspension.

The obverse features the word "Lebanon" in Arabic.

There are 2 versions of the I Class Decoration which vary by inscription. Early versions feature both a French and Arabic inscription on the reverse which translates to "State of Greater Lebanon Honour and Devotion." Decorations issued post-Independence feature only an Arabic inscription on the reverse which translates to "Chivalry and Honour, the State of Greater Lebanon."

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