D-Day Veteran Honored on 99th Birthday

0:00I'm Cory with the story, and you've been listening to Europe News today, AI-powered European coverage. Sergeant George Horner, a D-Day veteran from Carrick Fergus, just got the freedom of the borough on his 99th birthday. He's one of the last royal Ulster rifle soldiers who hit Sword Beach on June 6, 1944. The council handed him this top honor right on Friday, his actual birthday. Earlier this week, they made it official after voting on it back in October. George joined the army at 17, trained as a Morse code signaler in O'Mog and Yorkshire, then shipped out to the continent. His dad fought in the First World War as a tailor turned soldier, so George followed that path. Folks are calling him a legend for his service and community work with the British Legion. The mayor, Jackson Minford, said it's the highest civic award they give, perfect for recognizing George's sacrifice and respect in town. Another Mark Collins pushed the motion, praising his courage as the best of their community.

1:01Counselor Billy Ash, the veteran's champion, back to two, noting George's lifelong commitment and friendship. No award matches what he did, but this hits right on his big day. George called it deeply honoring the best birthday gift ever. Eric keeps that wartime legacy alive for generations in Karek Fergis.