Filled with the Gratitude

It has been a busy few months for one of our residents, Earl.

Back in November, we received an email from the Government of France asking if any of our residents had been a part of the liberation of France in the Second World War. Why yes! Earl was there! He and I met to fill out the form they requested with dates, military numbers, and other important details, and I sent it off.

On Feb 11, 2022, Earl celebrated his 100th birthday by buying all of his friends a drink at Happy Hour – if anything calls for champagne, it’s a HUGE birthday!

At the beginning of April, he had a fall that landed him in the hospital for almost six weeks. However, during that time, we heard back from the French government that Earl had been awarded the rank of Knight of the French National Order of the Legion of Honour.

This distinction is the highest national order of France and “illustrates the profound gratitude France would like to express to you. It is awarded in recognition of your personal involvement in the liberation of our country during World War II.”

As our veterans from WWII slowly pass away, it is so impactful to see those who remain honoured so highly.

Thank you for your service, Earl, and we are so glad you had a happy birthday!

By Sarah Smith, Manager of The Cridge Seniors’ Village Centre