WWII veteran to be recognized by France

France recognizes a WWII veteran during ceremony in Coconut Grove

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Published On: Mar 15 2013 11:07:20 AM EDT

COCONUT GROVE, Fla. (AP) — A World War II veteran is being recognized in Florida for fighting alongside France during the war.

The French Consulate will award the insignia of "Knight in the National Order of the Legion of Honor" to George Lyall on Friday. The event is taking place at the Coral Reef Yacht Club in Coconut Grove.

A statement from the French Consulate says the Legion of Honor rewards eminent military and civil merits in the service of France. It's the highest distinction that can be awarded on a French citizen or foreigner.

The Legion was founded in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte.

Notable Americans who have received the award include: Thomas Edison, Alexander Graham Bell, General Douglas MacArthur, the astronomer Simon Newcomb, Dwight D. Eisenhower and former Secretary of State Colin Powell.

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