The Republic of France paid special tribute to a member of the “greatest generation” from Mitchell.
French Consul General to the Midwest Guillaume LaCroix presented the French Legion of Honor medal to veteran Jimmy Traupel of Mitchell.
For LaCroix, presenting the honor is personal.
Traupel accepted the Legion of Honor on behalf of his comrades in the 379th Bomb Group but made one thing clear.
He says he was trained to do a job and performed it to the best of his ability.
Traupel flew 34 missions over Europe as a waist-gunner and “toggler” aboard B-17 bombers. He received numerous medals including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Purple Heart and now, 75 years later, the French Legion of Honor.
(KORN)