Veteran receives top award at a surprise party Â

The family of Frederick Temple arranged for him to receive the legion d'honneur for his role in the Second World War.

Frederick's son David Harvey from Havant said: '˜He was very proud and they offered it to him a few years ago but he said no so we wanted to surprise him and get the medal because we are so proud of what he did.'

The 67-year-old added: '˜We have had the medal for about two years but it was difficult to get everyone in the same place at the same time so this has been a long time coming but I am so glad everyone is here.'

Five generations of Frederick's family gathered at the D-Day Museum in Southsea for his 93rd birthday celebrations and enjoyed an afternoon tea.

Granddaughter Lisa Bracher said: '˜He had no idea that this was going to happen and then my dad started to tell him and it was lovely that other veterans came along as well.

'˜It was all very emotional.'

Deputy Commandant General of the Royal Marines Brigadier Haydn White presented Frederick with his medal.

Frederick from Gosport said: '˜I was really shocked that my family have done this for me and it is really lovely.

'˜All my family are here and it is great to celebrate with my children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.'

Frederick was part of the Royal Marines 41, 42, 43, and 45 Commando, which took part in the Normandy landings.

Lisa hopes her son will follow in the footsteps of her granddad.

She said: '˜No one else in our family is in the armed forces or has gone down that route yet but we are hoping and nudging my son to join the navy to carry on that tradition.'

 

PIC OF MEDAL SPACE