Légion d'Honneur presented to trio of D-Day Veterans

Published: 23 March 2018

The Lord Provost of Glasgow hosted a ceremony for three D-Day veterans awarded France's highest decoration, the Légion d'Honneur by the Consul General of France.

The three heroes served across the armed forces during the Second World War.

Eric Robertson (92) John Aitken and Kenneth Wilson both (93) were joined by the Lord Provost, the Consul General of France in Scotland, Emmanuel Cocher and proud members of their families. As well as a 30-strong Guard of Honour provided by the Scots Guards.

The insignia of Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur - or in full - the National Order of the Legion of Honour, is a French order established by Napoleon Bonaparte on May 19, 1802.

It's the highest decoration in France and while membership in the Légion is technically restricted to French nationals, foreign nationals - who have served France or the ideals it upholds -may receive the honour.

Consul General of France, Emmanuel Cocher said: "France will never forget the gallantry and bravery veterans showed in taking part in the Liberation of France more than 70 years ago.

"The actions and sacrifice of these men, and of so many who fell on the battlefield, was instrumental in bringing back freedom and peace in France and across Europe".

Lord Provost Eva Bolander said: "These men are heroes to whom we owe a great debt. We are incredibly proud of them. Their courage and bravery is truly humbling. It's wonderful to be able to pay tribute to these extraordinary men in this way while celebrating our ties with France through the Auld Alliance."

The honoured veterans:

Mr John Aitken (93), Able Seaman HMS Enterprise: part of a bombardment force in Operation Overlord. Engaged in defence of Sherbourg on D-Day. He loaded the munitions into the guns.

Eric Robertson (92 ), Guardsman Second Battalion Scots Guards, part of the VIII Corps which helped liberate France.

Kenneth Wilson (93), 81st Field Regiment, 53rd Welsh. In Normandy June 1944. Drove a truck and laid the telephone lines between the gun positions and the infantry battalions. He also delivered parts for wireless operators and ammunition for troops and gunners.