WW1 French Flag Nursing Corps FFNC British trained nurses badge

A rare original First World War period 'French Flag Nursing Corps badge' ; large oval gilded brass example the outer title surround in red, the centre bearing tricolour 'French Flag' upon blue enamel ground, the reverse with maker's details "J.R. Gaunt London". Very good condition, retaining original pin fittings, enamel intact, minor service wear.
Height 34mm.

Founded by 'Miss.Grace Allison' with 250 certificated British Nurses, paid for by the 'French War Office' to cope with the deluge of French wounded. Some were attached to 'Military Ambulances', others were in charge of large military hospitals such as Caen and Lisieux and many smaller ones. After the Armistice, the 'French Service de Sante' declared the FFNC nurses to be the most satisfactory of all their nurses and those of their allies.