Since their huge army (upon which Britain was counting) was defeated by Germany so quickly, and so early in the war, and it spent most of the war either under total occupation, or occupation/collaboration, why was France given such a place of honor along with the countries that had really fought to defeat Germany? Was it done to give the Western allies a favorable balance of power against the Soviets? (Not that I am discounting the role of the Resistance, and the Free French in London).
You're thinking myopically. Recall that France had been a major world power for centuries, and still was. France was one of the dominating political, economic, and cultural forces of Europe; France's defeat at the hands of Germany in WWII was a shock to everyone.
It was assumed that France would remain a major force in world politics. The same assumption was made about the United Kingdom. But after decolonization, the UK and France both experienced a significant decline in cultural, political, and economic influence.
If anything, Germany and Japan should have permanent seats on the Security Council, not France and the UK.
Primarily because they were still part of the 'Allies'. Although their contribution was limited during the German occupation of France, the leadership that was led by Charles de Gaulle from England survived the occupation and continued to a functional member of the Alliance. Even though French history during WWII describes mostly defeats, they were nevertheless entitled to a share of the spoils.
This quote from a speech by Winston Churchill in November 1942 might be of interest:
"At this time our thoughts turn towards France, groaning in bondage under the German heel. Many ask themselves the question: Is France finished? Is that long and famous history, adorned by so many manifestations of genius and valour, bearing with it so much that is precious to culture and civilisation, and above all to the liberties of mankind - is all that now to sink for ever into the ocean of the past, or will France rise again and resume her rightful place in the structure of what may one day be again the family of Europe?...For ourselves we have no wish but to see France free and strong, with her Empire gathered round her and with Alsace-Lorraine restored."
The final sentence gives a bit of insight into Churchill's mindset. Churchill was a major proponent of the British Empire and was strongly opposed to breaking it up. France had extensive colonial holdings, particularly in Africa, and if the French Empire was to collapse, the British Empire could have been destabilised.
Just out of curiosity why wouldn't France get a seat in the UN Security Council? Still a large and influential country right?