We present a novel class of rugged, lead-insensitive, fiber optic sensors for the measurement of strain and vibration in composite material laminates. The sensors are embedded within the material as well as attached to the surface in a retrofit fashion. Static strain measurement is demonstrated by attaching the fiber sensor to a metallic beam. Modal components of a vibrating cantilever beam have been resolved using such sensors. Sensors with variable sensitivity have been demonstrated by placing the sensing fiber at varying distances from the neutral axis of the beam.