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Canadian veterans of the Second World War
are sought for France’s highest honour

July 6th, 2018

A Canadian Forces (Reserves) veteran who volunteers his time to bring official recognition to Canadian soldiers is searching for any veteran who served during the liberation of France in 1944. Guy Black has asked Points West Living to spread the word that the Government of France is awarding its highest medal, The National Order of the Legion of Honour, to any Canadian veteran who served in that campaign.

From D-Day to the end of August 1944

Mr Black, a recipient of the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation, calls himself ‘an unofficial volunteer’ who has been helping veterans with their medal applications for the past four years. That’s when France began seeking out Canadian veterans who participated in the liberation of France from June 6, 1944 to August 30, 1944.

Equal to the Order of Canada

“This is a very significant official award. It is equal to the Order of Canada. It cannot be purchased or ordered and is not given posthumously,” says Mr. Black. “This coming year will mark the 75th Anniversary of D-day and the liberation of France, and it is hoped that many more veterans will receive this great honour.”

“If you are a veteran that fought in this campaign or directly supported it, and it includes members of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Merchant Navy, you may be eligible, so please apply.”

Application help is available

Mr. Black says it doesn’t cost anything to apply, and he will help any veteran navigate the application process. You can start the process by emailing him (at korea19501953@yahoo.com), or by mailing a letter addressed to Legion of Honour c/o 515-95 Moody Street, Port Moody, BC, V3H 0H2.

Photo (provided): The Legion of Honour (National Order of the Legion of Honour) is the highest French order of merit. It was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802. Canadian veterans who fought on French soil from June 6, 1944 to August 30, 1944 may be eligible to receive it.

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