A D-Day hero has finally received a medal for his service in Normandy, aged 105.
John Maskell was presented with his Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur medal from the French government yesterday (14 Jan).
It is the highest civilian award given by the French Republic for outstanding service to France.
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The former Royal Corps of Signals Private received his medal at Highfield House Residential Care Home, Castle Cary, near Yeovil, Somerset, where he lives.
A letter from the French Ambassador was read out at the presentation.
A care home spokesperson said: “John has lived in Highfield House Residential Care Home for five years and we have come to be extremely fond of him.
“He is such a kind and humble man and we are so proud that he has received this honour.
“It is amazing that after all these years John is getting the recognition for risking his life so that we could have freedom and security.”
Well-wishers congratulated Mr Maskell on his honour.
Cecilia Adams said: “Oh that’s incredible.
“Well deserved Mr Maskell and thank you for your service to the country.”
Jane Pollard added: “Huge congratulations John, so thrilled for you to receive this medal and so well deserved.
“Thank you for all you did for our country.”
And Rachael Sealey added: “Wow.
“Amazing.
“Couldn’t happen to a better man.
“Congratulations John.”
An Early Day Motion has also been tabled in the UK Parliament to celebrate Mr Maskell’s honour, as reported by Need To Know.
It reads: “That this House celebrates the extraordinary achievement of Sydney, known as John, Maskell, 105, who has been awarded the Legion D’Honneur Medal by the French Government.
“In recognition of his outstanding service in the Royal Signals during the D-Day landings and the Liberation of France.
“Recognises that the Legion D’Honneur is France’s highest military and civil distinction, awarded upon the demonstration of extreme bravery.
“Expresses profound gratitude for his courage, valour and dedication demonstrated in the defence of freedom and democracy against Nazi tyranny in Europe.
“Acknowledges that in an era marked by the troubling rise of fascism and authoritarianism around the world, the sacrifices made by Mr Maskell and all veterans, serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring need to protect peace.
“And commends the French Government for recognising the sacrifice and contribution of Allied veterans ensuring their legacy is remembered and celebrated for years to come.”
It has been signed by six MPs.
Troops from the UK, the US, Canada, and France attacked German forces on the coast of northern France, on 6 June 1944 during World War Two.
D-Day was the largest military seaborne operation ever attempted and marked the start of the campaign to liberate Nazi-occupied north-west Europe.
It involved the simultaneous landing of tens of thousands of troops on five separate beaches in Normandy.
More than a year into the planning, D-Day was originally set to start on 5 June, judged to be the most likely date to combine calm seas, a full moon and low water at first light.
However, storms meant it was delayed by 24 hours to 6 June.
The “D” simply stands for “day”.
D-Day is a military term for the first day of an operation.
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