Patrick Roberts writes: Marc van Hasselt, Headmaster of the School from 1970 to 1984, landed on the beaches of Normandy on D day, 6 June 1944, as a young Gunner officer attached to the Essex Yeomanry. He landed on Gold Beach early on D Day in a Bren gun carrier as a Fire Bombardment Officer. His Regiment were in the vanguard of the breakout from the beachhead and he was closely involved in the major action at Point 103 in the immediate aftermath of the landings.
The Legion d’Honneur has been award to Marc in recognition of his contribution to the liberation of France. It is the highest decoration awarded in France. He was presented with the Legion d’Honneur by the French consul, Monsieur Francois Jean on Saturday 18 April at the Town Hall in Lymington. The Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson Esq, presided over the ceremony and there were many from his and Tessa’s family present thus adding to this special occasion.
It was a splendid day and lovely that so many of his family were able to attend and join in being justifiably proud of Marc’s award. It was fitting that the weather was fine with a fair breeze so that at the small gathering for lunch beforehand at the Royal Lymington Yacht Club, Marc was able to watch the boats launch for a perfect day’s sailing.
[The Legion of Honour was established by Napoleon Bonaparte on 19 May 1802. Its purpose was to reward meritorious service to France regardless of social origin. Napoleon: “The French have one feeling: honour. We must nourish that feeling. The people clamour for distinction…. There has been too much tearing down; we must rebuild.” – Ed.]