A Century Later: D-Day Hero Finally Receives Long-Awaited Honor
In a poignant and uplifting moment, Don Butt, one of the last surviving heroes of D-Day, was presented with the Légion d’honneur medal, fulfilling a lifelong ambition more than 80 years after his courageous role in the historic Normandy landings on June 6, 1944. At 100 years old, Don's heartfelt recognition serves as a tribute not only to his bravery but also to the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom.
A Dream Come True
Don's daughter, Karen Cetin, expressed immense pride in her father's achievement, stating that the medal means everything to him. "He always said it was something he would love to have," she shared. The arduous journey to obtaining the medal was filled with bureaucratic challenges. Initially, an application submitted in 2024 was rejected, but through perseverance and support from the Ministry of Defense, a second application was expedited, allowing for this well-deserved recognition before it was too late.
A Lifetime of Service
Living through the harrowing experiences of war, Don signed up for the Marines at just 17 years of age and found himself in the heart of conflict during the D-Day invasion. Clinging to ropes amidst chaos, he played a crucial role in landing waves of troops on Juno Beach. For decades, he kept these memories to himself, harboring the belief that he was "too young" to deserve a medal for his service. It was only recently that he felt compelled to share his experiences, leading to the renewed efforts for recognition.
Words of Gratitude
In a heartfelt address upon receiving the medal, Don stated, “It’s the last one missing from my medals. It is my final ambition—my final wish—to get that medal.” The honor was presented alongside a letter from Hélène Duchêne, the Ambassador of France to the United Kingdom, commending Don for his role in the Liberation of France during World War II. Her words of appreciation highlighted the vital contributions of soldiers like Don who played an instrumental part in shaping today's Europe of peace.
Legacy of Courage
The response to Don's recognition has been overwhelmingly positive, with John Rawlinson from the Royal Marines Historical Society emphasizing the pride associated with Don’s accomplishments. “We are delighted that Don has received his medal," he noted. This milestone not only recognizes Don's bravery but also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by him and his generation.
As we reflect on the deep scars of war and the unwavering spirit of those who fought, Don Butt's story resonates as a testament to resilience, honor, and the need to celebrate our heroes, regardless of how much time has passed. His journey and eventual recognition are not just personal victories, but a collective remembrance of courage, hope, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
