Updated Jan 26, 2013 @ 11:22 PM
I spent my afternoon Friday in Columbus covering the story of 93 year old WWII veteran James G. Cook who was presented with the French Legion of Honor. I learn as much as I can about WWII whether by documentary or book. I always have, and I am especially interested in studying WWII in Europe trying to learn more about my grandfather and his journey through the war. The sacrifices they made are the reason I am here today, able to go about my life in freedom and I don't take that lightly. I learn as much as I can to honor them and love it when I have the opportunity to help tell their story. I have added a link to the story written by Nikki Patrick.
http://www.morningsun.net/news/x971313241/WWII-vet-Cook-gets-French-Legion-of-Honor
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Active and alert at 93, James Cook is one of the few surviving combat infantrymen of World War II. Because they spent extended periods of time at the front lines, many of these combat soldiers never made it home. Cook, who was presented Friday with the French Legion of Honor, said that he felt those who had sacrificed their lives deserved it more than he did.
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James Cook has a new medal for his World War II uniform, the French Legion of Honor. His other honors include the Combat Infantryman Badge at top, two Bronze Stars, Sharp Shooter Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal, Army of Occupation Medal and World War II Victory Medal.
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World War II veteran James Cook stands in the Columbus Unified High School auditorium lobby Friday afternoon to greet friends and well-wishers, shortly before a ceremony in which he received the French Legion of Honor. Behind him is a table holding a display of his WWII memorabilia.
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A trusty canteen was part of James Cook’s World War II pack. His mess kit, gas mask and other items were on display Friday outside the Columbus Unified High School auditorium.
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World War II veteran James Cook stands at attention and salutes the flag he served at the beginning of a ceremony in his honor Friday afternoon in the Columbus Unified High School auditorium.
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James Cook proudly displays his Second Division insignia on his uniform sleeve. He served in the 38th Regiment of the division, which is known as the “Indian Head” Division. Its motto is “Second to None.”
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Lt. Col. Michael N. Skahan presents James Cook with the French Legion of Honor medal during a Friday afternoon ceremony in the Columbus Unified High School auditorium. The medal is in gratitude for fighting to liberate France during World War II.
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James Cook listens as Sgt. Steve Jameson reads a citation from a letter written by French Ambassador Francois Delattre in recognition of France’s “infinite gratitude and appreciation” for his contribution to the United States’ decisive role in liberating that country during World War II.
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James Cook speaks briefly after being presented with the French Legion of Honor Friday afternoon. He turned 93 in December, but said there were times while serving on the front lines in Europe that he thought he would never see another birthday.
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One of the World War II memorabilia items displayed Friday by James Cook was the Bible that his mother, Imogene Cook, gave him before he went off to war. Written on it is “May this keep you safe from harm.” He always carried the Bible in his shirt pocket.
SEAN STEFFEN/THE MORNING SUN
At left is Pfc. James Cook, 24, and at right is Cook today at 93. The veteran was recognized Friday by the French government for his service to help liberate France from the Germans in World War II.
