Luciano “Louis” Graziano | A Patriot's Memoirs of World War II - Facebook
Luciano “Louis” Graziano | A Patriot's Memoirs of World War II - Facebook
Hundreds gathered at the First United Methodist Church Family Life Center in Thomson, Georgia, on Sept. 17 to witness Luciano “Louis” Graziano receiving the French Legion of Honor.
The honor was awarded to Graziano for his role in the U.S. Army helping to liberate France from Germany during World War II.
"France is what it is today, a free and sovereign country, thanks to the bravery of such veterans and thanks to America," Vincent Hommeril, consul-general of France, said in a statement to FOX 5.
During his time in France, Graziano served as a foreman where he was responsible for all American-occupied buildings, including The Little Red Schoolhouse where the Germans signed surrender documents, according to FOX 5.
Graziano is believed to be the last surviving witness to the signing of Germany's surrender, according to a blog post published by VAntage Point.
The veteran has received other awards, including the World War II Victory Medal, a Good Conduct Medal and a European-American Eastern Campaign Medal.
Born in 1923, Graziano, who is now 98 years old, has also published a book about his career in the Army titled, "A Patriot’s Memoirs of World War II."
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