In recognition of his work promoting French society in the U.S., and fostering business ties between the two countries, Haynes Boone Senior Counsel John Eldridge has been named to France’s National Order of Merit.
The prestigious honor is bestowed on French citizens and a small number of non-French individuals, who have a long, demonstrated record of military or civil achievements that contribute to the “renown” and “civic spirit” of France. It is a complementary award to France’s Legion of Honor.
Philippe Étienne, France’s Ambassador to the U.S., commended John on his “outstanding contributions to France.” In a letter, Ambassador Étienne, wrote that the award “is bestowed upon you in honor of your brilliant career and your efforts to grow business relations between our two countries, not to mention your work expanding France's influence in Houston, especially in the city's schools.”
“I am truly gratified to receive this award, which reflects my lifelong passion for France — its culture, history, geography business acumen and of course its wine and cuisine,” John said. “I want to also thank Haynes Boone for supporting me and encouraging me to pursue community service in furtherance of my interests.’”
John chairs the board of the French-American Chamber of Commerce Texas, which develops business connections for its members and furthers business opportunities between France and Texas. He also has served on the board of the Awty International School in Houston, the city’s premier international school, which serves students from PK3 to 12th grade and confers International Baccalaureate (IB) and French Baccalauréat (FB) diplomas.
John will be awarded the Order of Merit from the French Consul General at a ceremony to be held later this year.
John has practiced environmental law for 40 years in Houston and Washington, D.C. His practice, including the 20-plus years as a partner at Haynes Boone, has involved corporate transactions, regulatory analysis, litigation and appellate work, with an emphasis on Superfund, property contamination issues and environmental indemnities.
John was the former chair of Haynes Boone’s Pro Bono and Public Service Committee. His long record of community outreach includes serving in leadership roles Rice University School of Humanities, the Rice Alumni Board, the United Way, and Da Camera of Houston.
Haynes Boone is an international corporate law firm with 19 offices spanning Texas, New York, California, Charlotte, Chicago, Denver, Virginia, Washington, D.C., London, Mexico City and Shanghai, providing a full spectrum of legal services in energy, technology, financial services and private equity. With about 650 lawyers, Haynes Boone is ranked among the largest U.S.-based firms by The National Law Journal, The American Lawyer and The Lawyer. It was recognized in the BTI Consulting Group’s 2022 “A-Team” report, which identifies the law firms that in-house counsel commend for providing superior client service.
