NINETY-nine-year-old Dennis Smith, a resident at Astune Rise Care Home in Eston, took the salute at the town’s Remembrance Parade.
Astune Rise is part of Popular Care, and both residents and staff were honoured to see Dennis recognised for his remarkable service and dedication.
His journey in the armed forces began aged 16, when he joined the Home Guard, two years before he was officially old enough to enlist. In 1944, he joined the Green Howards and was deployed to France, later serving with the Black Watch Regiment. He fought through Belgium and the Netherlands before reaching Germany, where he was based when the war ended.
Following the war, Dennis continued to serve with both the Lincoln Regiment and Worcester Regiment, taking part in peacekeeping operations in Italy before completing his military service back in Germany.
Caroline Bowstead, home manager at Astune Rise, said: “We’re incredibly proud of Dennis and deeply honoured that he continues to represent not only Astune Rise but also all those who served.
“His story is a living piece of history and a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by so many. We were also thrilled to see Dorothy’s hard work supporting the Royal British Legion, she’s been unstoppable with her knitting needles.”
Earlier this year, his bravery and commitment were formally recognised when he was appointed to the rank of Chevalier in the Order national de la Légion d’Honneur, France’s highest distinction, awarded for his “military engagement and steadfast involvement” in the Liberation of France during the Second World War.
Astune Rise’s contribution to remembrance didn’t end there. Fellow resident Dorothea Quinn has been hand-knitting poppies all week to raise funds for the Royal British Legion, having already raised just over £100, some of which she will also use to treat fellow residents, through her efforts.