Abbotsford veteran Cyril Holbrow was honoured at Monday’s council meeting with France’s highest award for his efforts in the Second World War.
With fellow legion members looking on, Holbrow was awarded the rank of Knight of the French National Order of the Legion of Honour and hailed for his participation in the liberation of France. He is one of around 1,000 Second World War veterans being honoured by the French government in an ongoing commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Allied landings on its coast. (Click here for more on Holbrow's time in Europe.)
Holbrow, who has spoken about his involvement in the war to local schools and other community groups, was also named a community champion by the City of Abbotsford. A paving stone with his name will be placed at the Plaza of Community Champions.
“I want to thank you for your outstanding community service,” Mayor Henry Braun said. “You have brought the history of World War II to life.”