In a special ceremony Saturday, Nov. 10 at the Oak Harbor Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7392 on Goldie Road,  Roy McWilliams received the French Legion of Honor medal — the French government’s highest recognition.

“More than 60 years ago, you rescued people you did not know,” said Jack Cowan, Honorary Consul of France, who came from Seattle to present the award.

“But you can be sure that those people have not forgotten you. We will never forget. You are forever France’s heroes.”

McWilliams, who was born Richard Boe in Vancouver, British Columbia, was drafted into the U.S. Army in San Francisco in 1943, and was trained as a ranger, then volunteered for parachute training in England. He became a member of the 82nd Airborne, taking part in the “Battle of the Bulge” and “Operation Varsity” in December, 1944.

He received an honorable discharge from the Army on Jan. 23, 1946 and promptly enlisted in the U.S. Navy submarine service and served in the Korean War.

“I’ve been in war quite a bit,” McWilliams said. “I fought in France, Holland, Belgium. I received two Bronze Stars for heroism.”

“This medal expresses France’s deep gratitude for your actions of devotion, of honor and nobility, of duty and supreme selflessness,” he continued.

“He’s waited a long time for this,” said McWilliams daughter, Peggy Gipson. “I’m just so proud of him. So many people aren’t aware of what (WWII) cost this nation, and to think he was able to be here in person to receive it. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”