SIR JOHN LESLIE, an Irish World War II veteran, has been awarded France’s highest military honour, the Legion of Honour.

The 98 year old received the honour during a ceremony yesterday at the French Residence in Dublin.

Sir John, who is one of Ireland’s last surviving D-Day veterans, said he felt humbled upon receiving the letter from the French embassy to tell him of the award conferred upon him by President Francois Hollande.

Source: Brian Hutton/PA

He dedicated the award to all of the Irish soldiers who fought in the war:

I accept this award graciously on behalf of all of the brave Irish men who lost their lives in pursuit of a greater good. They continue to remain in my memory to this day and this award is for them and their families. Thank you.

The embassy said yesterday was an occasion for the French republic to acknowledge the role played by Ireland and Irish soldiers for the liberation of France during the war.