A Perthshire war hero has received France’s highest honour in recognition of his “steadfast involvement” in the country’s liberation during World War II.
Alexander Shepherd was awarded the insignia of Chevalier de la Legion d’honneur at a ceremony near his home in Blackford.
The 93-year-old said he felt “hugely honoured” to get the medal, which is the highest distinction given to war veterans by the French authorities.
He said: “I know that this medal is not just for me, though. It is for my whole unit, for my colleagues who served with me more than 70 years ago.
“I’m not sure I really enjoyed my time in the army, but it is a great honour for our efforts to be recognised this way.”
He added: “There had been some talk about getting this medal for a few years, but it was very unexpected when it came in the post one morning.”
Mr Shepherd fought with the 43rd Wessex Division and served throughout Europe.
His courageous efforts were recognised by Sylvie Bermann, the Ambassador of France to the United Kingdom.
In her letter to Mr Shepherd, she wrote: “I offer you my warmest congratulations on this high honour in recognition of your acknowledged military engagement and steadfast involvement in the Liberation of France during the Second World War.
“As we contemplate this Europe of peace, we must never forget the heroes like you, who came from Britain and the Commonwealth to begin the liberation of Europe by liberating France. We owe our freedom and security to your dedication, because you were ready to risk your life.”
Mr Shepherd returned to Scotland after the war and got a job with lawn mower manufacturers Atco, which had a factory near Glasgow. He was later transferred to the company’s Perth branch where he stayed for 40 years.
He was formally presented with his Legion d’honneur at a ceremony in Blackford Parish Church, watched by friends, family and well-wishers.
Mr Shepherd is the second Perthshire veteran to receive France’s top honour. Jack Chalmers, from Scone, was given his medal from consul-general Emmanuel Cocher at a presentation in Perth’s Royal George Hotel earlier this month.