Giraud Cancels Vichy Law Barring Jews from Service with French Combat Units

The status of Jewish officers and men who were admitted to service with combat units of the French forces last month was made official yesterday in an order issued by Gen. Henri Giraud. The decree has the effect of canceling the Vichy anti-Jewish law which barred Jews from the army.

Gen. Giraud’s order also covers Jews now serving in the French Pioneer Corps. They will be admitted to all fighting forces which do not include Moslems. Doctors will also be admitted to the Medical Service. Jewish officers and noncommissioned officers, however, will be restored to their previous rank only if they have been wounded or cited in action or “are favorably known to the military authorities.”