‘A living hero’: Woodstock man who saw ‘fierce combat’ in WWII awarded France’s highest medal of honor

A decorated, 102-year-old Woodstock man left his family at the age of 18 for Europe to serve in the Army during World War II. He encountered “fierce combat” on multiple fronts, and on Friday was honored with France’s highest distinction.Charlotte Montel, the consul general of France in Chicago, presented William F. Lyford with the French Legion of Honor medal. Nearly 100 friends, neighbors and family gathered for the event at the McHenry County administration building in Woodstock.

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Montel said the moment brought her “true emotion” as she presented Lyford “on behalf of the president of the French Republic” with her country’s “highest distinction.” Lyford has earned other awards, including the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star, eight Campaign Stars and an arrowhead signifying an amphibious landing in northeastern France.The Legion of Honor, honors Lyford’s courage and dedication to defeat the enemy and allow France and Western Europe to live in peace. Montel detailed Lyford’s service, sta