On Nov. 29, French officials presented two American veterans with the highest military honor of France. Mr. Joseph Corbin and Mr. Francis Smith are veterans of the Second World War, and now proudly bear the title of "Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur" (Knight of the Legion of Honor).

The French Legion of Honor was created in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte. It is the highest distinction awarded to those who have served France with utmost courage. In last Thursday's case, both Corbin and Francis were recognized for their service on French soil during World War II. The battles of Normandy, Metz, and the Bulge are just a few of the examples of the veterans' outstanding bravery and grit.

The ceremony, hosted by the French American School of Tampa Bay, recognized two American WWII veterans with the highest French honor possible.

The awards were presented by Brigadier General Germain Barrau and Consul General Clément Leclerc. The importance of the U.S. veterans is not lost on the people of France. In his speech, Barrau highlighted the importance of those who served during the fight against the Nazis: "It is our duty to pass along this memory — the remembrance of all American veterans who came to the rescue of France and of Europe."