French award for distinguished
civil or
military service; the most prestigious award given by the French government. Created in 1802 by
Napoleon Bonaparte. Literally, "Legion of Honor", of course.
American recipients include Julia Child, Jerry Lewis, and Norman Schwarzkopf.
Sources
http://www.theaerodrome.com/medals/france/loh.html
http://www.msnbc.com/news/492568.asp