HAMLIN, N.Y. — A World War II veteran from Hamlin is being recognized by the country he helped liberate.

Eugene Dollard was presented with the Knight in the National Order of the Legion of Honor from the Consulate General of France.

Dollard enlisted in the United States Navy in 1943 at age 18. He fought in North Africa and was a part of the D-Day Invasion at Omaha Beach.

Dollard became emotional after receiving the award.

"The action that took place, you never forget," Dollard said. "It's a sound. Ah, I know on that Normandy invasion, we lost 7,000 people and it was a vicious battle."

The distinction is a 'thank you' from the French people to Americans who contributed to the liberation of France in the war.