A veteran has been awarded France’s highest honour for his service in helping to liberate France during the Second World War.

Peter Molyneux, who has lived in Borehamwood since 1936, has received a Legion of Honour, being appointed to the rank of Chevalier, and was presented with a medal and certificate by his family over the weekend.

French diplomat Catherine Collona wrote to 97-year-old Mr Molyneux offering her "warmest congratulations for this high honour".

She continued: "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."

Borehamwood Times:

Mr Molyneux took part in the allied Normandy Landings and served as a petty officer on HMS Prince Charles, taking soldiers and landing craft which would take them to Omaha beach.

Having volunteered in the Merchant Navy since 1942, Mr Molyneux, under the threat of heavy gunfire, collected hundreds of US Rangers in readiness for the morning's invasion which would be part of the largest ever and begin the downfall of Nazi Germany.

His two brothers, Keith and Dennis, were also involved in D-Day and survived.

Borehamwood Times:

Shortly after the war ended, Mr Molyneux received medals for his service although they would go on to be lost.

His grandson Carl Irvin made it his mission to reunite his grandfather with his medals which he was able to in 2019.

Now, the Legion D'honneur has been added to Mr Molyneux's collection. He was presented with a certificate and medal by his family at his home in Borehamwood on Saturday.

Borehamwood Times:

 

Mr Molyneux says he was "shocked and surprised" by the honour which recognises his military engagement and steadfast involvement in the Liberation of France during the war.

Grandson Carl said: "We are all extremely proud of him and we all feel unbelievably lucky to still have him here and we’ve been able to enjoy this special and momentous occasion with him. He's my idol, and part of an irreplaceable generation.

"We are all proud of our dad, grandad, great-grandad, and great-great-grandad."