GEORGE Gould has been awarded the French Legion of Honour Medal for services rendered to France during World War II at a ceremony in Sydney at the French Embassy.
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The medal, a white star, featuring a green wreath and a rich red ribbon, is the highest decoration bestowed in France.
"I am delighted with this decision, it recognises your outstanding services during the second World War," wrote counsellor and deputy head of mission at Embassy of France C dric Prieto, to the 91-year-old.
"This is France's way to express gratitude toward those who risked their lives for the Liberation of France."
Growing up in Cottesloe Beach, a western suburb of Perth in Western Australia, George has always had an adventurous soul.
His enlistment to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) at the age of 18 was an opportunity according to George for a "big adventure" and to continue his family's honour in the war.
George's father served as a private in the Australian Imperial Forces, while his uncle lost his life while serving with the light horse regiment in World War I.
George was a part of the No. 456 Squadron as a night fighter pilot with RAAF in the defence of France from German occupation in WWII.
George was trained in Beaufighter aircrafts, until the squadron was re-equipped with Mosquito aircrafts in 1942.
The Mosquito aircraft, still to this day, stands as George's favourite aircraft, with a model of the aircraft perched in his room at Estia Health Taree.
George served in Europe for around three years and eight months, before having to return home due to sinusitis.
In returning home George took back his previous job at the Commonwealth Bank.
His father was the bank manager at Commonwealth Bank, a role George would later take on in Perth.
He met his late wife inside the bank, and they had two children, Richard and Judy.
Following an East Coast move, George became the manager of the Commonwealth Bank in Taree, a role he retired from around 30 years ago.
George's adventurous nature turned to his hobbies where he loved motorcycle riding, sailing yachts and bush walking and picnics with his family.
"I've always been adventurous," George said.
"I've always been one to have a go."
