Awarded on the sole criterion of services rendered to the nation, it brings together men and women from all walks of life, both civilian and military, in keeping with its founder Napoleon Bonaparte's desire for universality.  
Like the younger National Order of Merit and the Military Medal dedicated to soldiers and non-commissioned officers, which also come under the responsibility of the Grand Chancellor of the Legion of Honor, the Legion of Honor award recognizes long-term commitment and dedication, even to the point of supreme sacrifice.  

While decorations satisfy the fundamental human need for recognition, they also play a virtuous role of emulation. Those honored are held up as examples and serve as an inspiration to contemporaries and future generations alike, since the distinction does more than simply highlight past merits. It obliges as much as it rewards, urging recipients to prove themselves worthy of the honor bestowed on them by committing themselves even more to France and its citizens.  

In this way are forged bonds of esteem that sometimes cross borders, as our national honors are also intended to salute foreigners who render services to our country. In this community of values, honor dictates a code of conduct based on self-respect and consideration for others.  
Army General François Lecointre 

Grand Chancellor of the Legion of Honor 
Chancellor of the National Order of Merit