This Vermont centenarian fought in Europe 80 years ago. Now he’s set to receive France’s highest honor.
Townshend veteran Richard Jackson can thank an area teenager for spurring overseas recognition of his World War II service in the U.S. Army’s 100th Infantry Division.
By Kevin O'Connor
May 26, 2024, 5:06 am

TOWNSHEND — Local veteran Richard Jackson’s World War II stint in Europe was 80 years ago and 3,500 miles away.

And yet, still on the top of his mind.

“I became the gunner on a mortar squad, which by definition is not on the front line and instead 100 yards behind, so I felt blessed,” Jackson said in a recent interview. “But of course, whenever you got shelled, you knew the potential of getting hit.”

Jackson, who celebrated his 100th birthday last fall, figured the rest of the world had long moved past such memories. Then the man known to family and friends as Dick learned he’s about to receive France’s highest honor, the Légion d’Honneur, for the military service that sparked them.

“This award testifies to France’s high esteem for your merits and accomplishments,” French Consul General Mustafa Soykurt wrote to Jackson in a letter. “In particular, it is a sign of France’s infinite gratitude and appreciation for your personal and precious contribution to the United States’ decisive role in the liberation of our country during World War II.”

The honor, created by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, recognizes people for military or civilian contributions. Although it’s usually given to French citizens, it has been granted to such Americans as telephone inventor Alexander Graham Bell, former first lady Eleanor Roosevelt and General Colin Powell.

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