106-Year-Old Manatee County WWII Veteran Awarded France’s Highest Honor
At 106 years old, John Skeen stood humbly before a packed room at the Elk's Lodge on Lena Road as he received the Knight of the Legion of Honor—the highest award bestowed by the French government. The Manatee County resident was honored for his heroic service in World War II, during which he helped liberate occupied towns across France.
Skeen served with the 70th Infantry Rifle Platoon and vividly recalls the battles he fought and the comrades he lost. On May 8, France marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, and French Consul General Raphael Trapp led the ceremony recognizing Skeen's bravery and sacrifice.
The Knight of the Legion of Honor is a rare and prestigious award, reserved for individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to France. Trapp described presenting the medal as one of his highest duties and emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by Allied soldiers.
Those in attendance included fellow veterans and community members who gathered to pay tribute to Skeen. While the honor brought deep appreciation, Skeen’s thoughts turned to those who served beside him — friends who never returned home.
Throughout the ceremony, Skeen reflected on raising American flags in liberated towns and the deafening cheers of freedom. He urged younger generations never to take liberty for granted and to understand the cost of freedom.
As he now looks forward to celebrating his 107th birthday this October, Skeen continues to serve as a living reminder of courage, patriotism, and the enduring legacy of the Greatest Generation.
