A D-DAY veteran from Andover has been honoured as a Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour) by the French government, for his efforts during the Second World War.

Fred Sadler, a resident at Arbory Residential Home on London Road, was a sapper in 84 Field Company Royal Engineers.

He joined the army at the age of 20 and went on to be stationed at a farm just outside Overton near Basingstoke. He was pictured on the Normandy beaches at 8.32am on June 6, 1944 during the early stages of the D-Day invasion, in what is coined as "the greatest picture of the war". His multi-skilled platoon went on to help rebuild vital infrastructure, including bridges and roads.

A letter sent to Mr Sadler by the French government thanked him for his involvement in the liberation of France, saying: “I have the pleasure of informing you that the president of the Republic has appointed you to the rank of Chevalier in the Ordre national de la Légion d’Honneur.

“I offer you my warmest congratulations on this high honour in recognition of your acknowledged military engagement and your 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.”

Service personnel from Tidworth Garrison where Fred served visited Arbory to congratulate him on his honour.

Iain Slack, manager at Arbory, said: “Fred is a real-life hero and a true gentleman. To receive such high-profile recognition from the French president is a fantastic tribute to his time in the Royal Engineers and we’re delighted that representatives from Tidworth Garrison could join us to honour him.”