D-Day Veteran Knighted, Awarded Prestigious Medal by France

Dr. V. Gayle Alexander is a 95 year old Lexington native, retired Veterinarian and retired Captain int he U.S. Army Air Corps (from 1942-1945).  He piloted the first bomber over the coast of France on D-Day, and then returned to service to fly a second mission bombing over inland bridges in order to stop German troop movements toward the beaches.

On Saturday, August 12th, 2017, he was honored for his dedication and service to his country by Bernard Marie, a special appointee of the President of France who was representing the French consulate.  As the invasion on D-Day took place, Marie was a 5-year-old boy sitting on his grandfather's lap in Luc Sur Mer, near Juno Beach.  He was given his first piece of chocolate that afternoon by American GIs liberating his village.

Dr. Alexander was presented with France's most prestigious award, LA Legion d'Honneur. 

Lexington Sister Cities Commission Chairman and 5th District Councilmember Bill Farmer was on hand to welcome Mr. Marie and thank Dr. Alexander for his service.