France's highest honour for Tweed man
A BANORA POINT resident has been awarded the prestigious Legion of Honour from the French Government for his role in liberating Europe from Nazi control during the Second World War.
David Mathias, a former signaller with the Royal British Navy, received France's highest honour from Richmond MP Justine Elliott at Twin Towns RSL ANZAC Room last week, more than 72 years after serving his country on D-Day.
Now 90, Mr Mathias was nominated for the award two years ago and wife Anne Mathias said the family was honoured he had received the award, which is the French equivalent of the Victoria Cross.
"It's a great medal and it's an honour, not just for him, but the whole family,” Mrs Mathias said.
Mr Mathias was with the 50th LCT Flotilla which was part of the landing force carrying soldiers and tanks to Utah Beach, Normandy.
Arriving in Australia in 1948, Mr Mathias worked on the Snowy Mountains Scheme before relocating to the Tweed in 1982.
He travelled to France on D-Day's 50th anniversary commemoration in 1994.
