The French Government today sent representatives to Norwich University in Northfield to honor 18 American World War II veterans.
The French consul general from Boston today awarded the Legion of Honor to the 12 of the group who were able to make it to the ceremony at Norwich.
Ninety-three-year-old Amelio Cucinelli of Beverly, Massachusetts, a combat medic during the war, put on the same uniform he wore more than 60 years ago for today’s ceremony.
The lifelong barber says it’s the highest honor of his life.
Messages of congratulations were read from French President Jacques Chirac and President Bush.
French Consul General Francois Gauthier says the medal is a way to recognize the people who liberated his country from oppression.
The medal is the highest honor awarded by the French Republic. It was created in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte.