Texas WWII veterans receive French Legion of Honor during D-Day ceremony on Battleship Texas
LA PORTE, Texas (KTRK) -- As the world stops to remember the sacrifices made by Allied forces on D-Day, a special honor was given to local World War II veterans on board the Battleship Texas.
On this day 75 years ago, the ship was off the coast of France supporting the D-Day invasion and helping turn the tide in the war.
The ship hosted an incredible ceremony Thursday, celebrating 10 Texas World War II veterans, who received the French Legion of Honor.
The Consul General of France, Alexis Andres, gave the highest and most prestigious decoration in France to the men who helped liberate France and save the world from Nazi Germany.
"For most of them, for the vast majority, they had never set foot in Europe, but they fought for Europe because they knew they fought for freedom, for democracy, to free our nations from tyranny. And their legacy today is the fact that Europe is at peace," Andres said.
"It was devastating. The war was devastating. I don't care how you say it, war is hell. And I'm so glad that I made it back. Somebody had a hand out there for me," WWII paratrooper James Earnst said.
The Battleship Texas is the last remaining battleship to have served during D-Day.
Also to commemorate the day, the Battleship Texas Foundation gave hour-by-hour updates on its Facebook page on what the ship was doing on D-Day.
The Battleship Texas is going to be moved to dry dock soon so repairs can be made to keep her afloat.
READ MORE: Battleship Texas leaving San Jacinto Battleground for good over decline in visits
One of the men recognized with the French Legion of Honor has since passed. His family received the decoration on his behalf.
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