Hero D-Day soldier: ‘I am so honoured’

DEEPLY honoured . . . John Cleverley

A GREENFIELD man who was one of the first to land in Normandy is now the proud recipient of France’s highest decoration.

Former D-Day soldier John Cleverley (91) is among a group of soldiers awarded the Legion d’Honneur. During last year’s 70th Normandy campaign celebrations, the French government vowed to present the award to surviving British and allied veterans who helped liberate them from the Germans during World War II.

John was a gunner with the 22nd Dragoons (Flails) who arrived on Sword Beach on June 6, 1944.

“When we had landed at 8.30am there were absolutely no vehicle marks in front of us, so I can always say we were the first,” said John. “It was a very, very difficult time and though we weren’t fighting bayonet to bayonet we saw plenty of things I don’t like to think and speak about. We were the lucky ones really. I am very honoured and proud to be a member of the Legion d’honneur.”

twitter: @GillPottsOC