A war hero from Wisbech has been honoured for his role during the Second World War by being awarded the highest order for military and civil merits in France.
Gerry Fleming, who currently lives in the Rose Lodge care home, received a letter from the French Ambassador, Sylvie Bermann, on November 10, telling him he has been appointed as chevalier in the Ordre national de la Légion d’honneur (knight in the National Legion of Honour).
Mr Fleming will receive the honour for his role during the D-Day landings in Normandy in 1944.
Ms Bermann said in the letter: “As we contemplate this Europe of peace, we must never forget the heroes like you, who came from Britain and the Commonwealth to begin the liberation of Europe by liberating France.
“We owe our freedom and security to your dedication because you were ready to risk your life.”
The Légion d’honneur was established in 1802 by Napoléon Bonaparte and is France’s highest distinction and is awarded in recognition of both military and civilian merit.
On average, just 10 British nationals receive the Légion d’honneur every year.
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