MILWAUKEE -- It was a proper and fitting ceremony for four American heroes.
On Thursday, France awarded four veterans with "Knight of the Legion of Honor" medals. They battled in France during World War II.
It was a very proud moment for families, but emotional time for Norma Hanes.
"I'm grateful and I'm sad," she said.
Sad because her husband Richard Hanes isn't here anymore.
"He was a good man," she said.
Richard was supposed to be honored, but he suddenly passed away earlier this week. Now Norma is accepting in his place.
"We were going to be here together and he died Tuesday evening. He was just the love of my life," Hanes said.
The medals these veterans received Thursday are one of the France's highest distinctions.
Brian Farnand is also proud of the tribute presented to his great-grandfather, Carlos Chavez.
"To see him finally recognized for things years and years and years later, I believe it's emotional for the family as well as for him. I believe that it's good to show people that they're appreciated for the things they've done," Farnand said.
