When the 1914–1918 Commemorative war medal (France) (French: "Médaille commémorative de la guerre 1914–1918") was established, it was anticipated that a clasp bearing the words, "ENGAGÉ VOLONTAIRE" (English: "VOLUNTEER ENLISTEE"), would be worn on its ribbon for those who had freely and voluntarily enlisted in the French Armed Forces for combat service.

The Act of 4 July 1935 created the Croix du Combattant Volontaire, designated for those who volunteered to serve on the front in a combat unit during the Great War.

The qualifications of the candidates have been reviewed by a panel from 1951, twelve members as follows: The decree of 10 April 1936 extended the award to the few surviving volunteer firefighters from the War of 1870–1871.

The Volunteer combatant's cross 1914–1918 is considered a war decoration during the review of applications for Légion d'honneur, la Médaille militaire and l'Ordre national du Mérite.

A special version was made for the volunteer fighters from the war of 1870–1871 with the dates 1870–1871 on the back replacing those of 1914–1918.