A London veteran who helped liberate France from the Nazis in World War II has received the French government's highest honour.
Michael Sydorko was awarded the rank of Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Honour by the French Government on Friday, during a ceremony at the 427 Wing of the Air Force Association in London.
Less than 50 Canadians have ever received this award.
"It's great, it's the best thing in the world," says Sydorko. "To have one of these, there isn't too many people who get these, so I must have done something good."
On June 13, 1944, Private Sydorko and the Lake Superior 4th Regiment Armoured Division landed in Calais to help liberate France from Nazi occupation.
MP Irene Mathyssen nominated Sydorko for the award. She describes him as compassionate, gentle, and very aware of what's happening in the community and the country.
"In our midst, in London, Ontario, we have a hero, a hero of incredible proportion, a man to be celebrated and it reminds us that we must celebrate each and every veteran from each and every conflict."