In a previous post, we described how Brother Bert Harrison had been honoured by the French government for his role in the liberation of France during World War Two. Bert was a Royal Navy medic and was landed on the French Mediterranean beaches as part of Operation Dragoon on 15th August 1944.
On 3rd April, at a ceremony held at the Hungerford branch of the Royal British Legion, Bert, along with two other veterans, was formally presented with his medal by a representative of the French government. Bert was supported by his family and friends, including a number of Hungerford Lodge members.
To cap off the celebrations, Bert was invited by the Constable of the Town and Manor of Hungerford and the Liberty of Sanden Fee to attend the Tutti Day Luncheon at which he was given a standing ovation by the 170 guests. Tutti Day is an ancient festival held on Hocktide or the second Tuesday after Easter each year. Hungerford is believed to be the last town in England celebrating this festival.