A SECOND World War veteran has been awarded the Legion D’Honneur for his involvement in the liberation of France.
Gordon Hardisty, of Seaford, was presented with the award on his 92nd birthday on Monday (December 12) at the Grand Hotel in Eastbourne.
The honour is the highest French civilian award.
Mr Hardisty served in the army with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers from 1939 to 1951.
He was joined in his celebrations by his wife, family and friends.
The medal was awarded to Mr Hardisty this year to commemorate D-Day veterans and to mark the 70th anniversary of the Normandy landings.
He was presented the medal by Captain Francois Jean of the French Consul, who thanked Mr Hardisty for the part he played in securing freedom for his country.
Mr Hardisty thanked the French people, saying he felt “so honoured to receive the award on such a joyful day”.
Amir Razavi
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