British World War II veterans from across the North West are set to receive one of France’s highest honours at Manchester Town Hall on Friday 19 February.
French Consul General Ms Sylvaine Carta-Le Vert will present the Legion d’Honneur to 14 veterans in recognition of the selfless acts of heroism and determination they displayed during the Normandy landings and the wider campaign to liberate France in 1944.
The prestigious medal will be awarded to troops who landed on French beaches as well as Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel who supported operations.
The Legion d’Honneur (officially the National Order of the Legion of Honour) was created in 1802, as a general military and civil order of merit conferred without regard to birth or religion – provided that anyone admitted swears to uphold liberty and equality
On the 70th anniversary of D-Day the French President François Hollande announced that the distinction would be awarded to all British veterans who fought for the liberation of France during the Second World War between 1944 and 1945.
Lord Mayor of Manchester Council Paul Murphy OBE, said: “The heroism and bravery displayed by British troops during World War II is unprecedented in modern history and it will be a privilege to meet these courageous men – who are owed so much by so many.
“This award is resoundingly deserved and I would like to join France in recognising the magnitude of these local men’s actions in the face of the most testing and harrowing of times.”
Mario Prost, Honorary Consul of France in Manchester said: “France owes British veterans an eternal debt of gratitude for their role in the liberation of Europe, which this award can never full repay. The French Republic thanks them wholeheartedly for their sacrifice and selfless service”.
Legion d’Honneur will be bestowed upon North West veterans at 11am, on Friday 19 February in the Great Hall, Manchester Town Hall.
