Bakewell veterans get highest military honour at Remembrance service

Albert Keir and Jack Dunsford were awarded the Legion of Honour at Bakewell’s Remembrance Sunday service.

The pair were given the highly prestigious award in recognition of their bravery in the liberation of France during the Second World War.

Mr Keir, 90, said he was 20 days off 19-years-old when he was drafted into battle.

He said: “It was a great honour to receive the award.

“This was an occasion to remember all the people that did not return home, though.”

Mr Keir added: “The war was not a pleasant thing. But we did what we had to and we did it well.”

Sylvie Bermann, of the French Embassy in London, wrote to the pair: “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 each ready to risk your life.

“I am happy to enclose your insignia of Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur and once again extend to you my heartfelt congratulations.”

Both Mr Keir and Mr Dunsford are now appointed to the rank of Chevalier in the Ordre national de la Légion d’honneur.