Four Hawke's Bay D-Day veterans are set to receive France's highest military medal - the Legion d'Honneur.
Six months ago the French Government announced that as part of the 70th anniversary of the landings at Normandy their highest honour would be bestowed upon surviving British servicemen who took part in what was effectively the beginning of the liberation of France during World War II.
Chris King, who oversees the Normandy Veterans Association (NVA) in New Zealand, sent out forms to veterans to be completed and sent off the United Kingdom Defence Ministry, which was administering the medal awards.
Stan Douglas of Napier, who is the convenor of the local NVA, said it was not something he ever expected to get.
"It's amazing really and great recognition for veterans," he said.
"It is particularly gratifying that the people of France still remember the individual servicemen and women who helped enable the freedom of Europe."
The Legion d'Honneur (Legion of Honour) was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 as his country's highest award for "excellence in civil or military conduct".
French President Francois Hollande approved the decision to award the medal to those who served with the British forces on D-Day.
Along with Mr Douglas, Max Collett, Bill Walker and Guy Natusch will receive the honour.
So will former Hawke's Bay man Noel Sutherland, who recently moved to Auckland.
Mr Douglas said the presentation was likely to take place at the Napier RSA some time in January and moves were afoot to try to get the French Ambassador to New Zealand to carry out the ceremony.
"It is an award of excellence to be celebrated," Mr Douglas said.