Video: Don Sutton, 99, receives France’s highest honour
A Nottingham war veteran thought to be one of the last in the world to have fought on horseback during the Second World War has been awarded France’s highest honour.
Don Sutton, 99, from Ravenshead in Gedling, was part of the North Somerset Yeomanry regiment, which helped to liberate France during 1944.
He received the Legion d’Honneur, France’s highest honour, during a ceremony at Gedling Civic Centre, Arnold, on Thursday.
Mr Sutton said: “It means a great deal; as an old solider it is truly wonderful that France has appreciated this.
“I am on my own now after my wife died and this means a lot to me.
“It hurts me because I joined the regiment and I believe out of 490 that went abroad with me in 1939, I think only 61 came back.
“The old pictures I have I took for my mother just in case I didn’t come back.”
Mr Sutton’s cousin, Julian McDonald-Sutton, attended the ceremony.
“It was more emotional than expected, he has had a very fulfilling life after the war,” he said.
“For a national government to recognise his achievements is fantastic.”
He was presented with the award by the High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire and French Consul in the East Midlands Jean Claude Lafontine.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Lafontine said: “If it was not for your sacrifice 72 years ago we would again be at war, we owe you a tremendous debt.
“You are a representative of one of the greatest generations of this country; on behalf of my generation I want to thank you for everything you have done.
“I am very proud to have served my country and proud to liberate yours.”
