JBSA-FORT SAM HOUSTON –
France's National Order of Legion of Honor, Chevalier (Knight) award was presented to U.S. Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Patricia D. Horoho by Frederic Dore, the deputy chief of mission at the Embassy of France, during a ceremony Nov. 12 in the French Embassy in Washington, D.C.
The prestigious award recognized Horoho for her exceptional career accomplishments and sustained dedication and commitment to giving new momentum to the French-American medical cooperation.
As a result of her efforts, the two countries enjoy collaboration on medical research and development and work closely together to improve battlefield medicine.
"I am so humbled to be receiving the Legion of Honor Award," Horoho said. "This award has recognized such a diverse group of individuals and there is a lineage that I am truly honored to now be a part of. This award is not just recognition of the Army surgeon general, but it is a tribute to the relationship between the U.S. and the French military."
The French Legion of Honor was instituted by Gen. Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, to recognize the distinguished merit and the full dedication of both military and civilians in service to the French nation. It is the highest distinction that can be bestowed on a French citizen as well as on a foreigner. All nominations for the award are decided by the President of the French Republic who is also the Grand Master of the Order.
Membership in the Legion of Honor is technically restricted to French nationals. However, foreign nationals who have served France, or the ideals it upholds, may receive a distinction of the Legion, which is nearly the same as being a member.