War vet Albert is a true hero

War hero Albert Robson didn’t want a fuss on his birthday.

Given that he had reached the magnificent milestone of his 100th birthday and was to be awarded France’s highest honour, this was one request we simply had to ignore.

It perhaps speaks volumes for the Second World War veteran that he didn’t want a song and dance made of his exploits.

Like many of the heroes who put their lives on the line for their country, they are nothing if not modest.

While unassuming Albert may prefer to keep a dignified silence, we are more than happy to sing his praises.

As we reveal today, Albert first arrived in France in 1939 to help protect the mines in the North of France.

He returned not long after as part of the D-Day landing forces that helped liberate France from the grip of Nazis.

Albert, fighting with the 6th Armoured Division, was the first allied soldier to arrive and help liberate the town of Lessines. From there he travelled to Holland, distributing food aid to the starving Dutch.

In recognition of his efforts, Albert was presented with the Legion d’Honneur at a moving ceremony surrounded by family and friends.

Daughter Anne summed up the day.

She said: “It was absolutely amazing. It was a very emotional event for everybody, and there were teasrs. We all just felt so proud.”

Real heroes are few and far between, but in Albert Robson we have a true man of courage and Sunderland shares his family’s pride.

We know you didn’t want a fuss Albert, but you deserve the attention and this hard-earned honour.