Top French accolade for world war veteran
A SECOND World War veteran from Earl Shilton has been honoured with a prestigious medal for his role in the Normandy landings.
Ron Collyer, 92, a former radio operator, gunner and driver of armoured vehicles, has been commended with the rank of Chevalier in the National Order of the Legion of Honour - one of the highest French accolades.
Following the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944, Ron, a trooper in 59th Reconnaissance Regiment, was assigned to provide intelligence beyond the frontline for the Allied forces.
His regiment saved the lives of many English and French troops by providing and relaying accurate information as the soldiers progressed forward.
Ron, the current president of the Royal British Legion in Hinckley, sustained some injuries during his assignment and was sent back to Carlisle Hospital to recover.
It was there that he met his future wife, Jean Pritt. They went on to have a son, Ian, and daughter, Barbara.
The 92-year-old said: “It is nice to know that our French friends recognise the help and support we gave them during this time.”
The latest award adds to Ron’s impressive collection - one in recognition of the Normandy invasion called the Overlord Operation medal and others celebrating the 40th and 60th anniversaries of the D-Day landings.
The grandad-of-two is now a resident at Moat House care home in Burbage, where he plays the keyboard and founded the centre’s choir.
The medals will be formally presented by representatives of the French Embassy at a later date.