France honors 106-year-old Palm Aire man

Palm Aire resident and esteemed golfer Gus Andreone added another honor to the list of accomplishments he has compiled over the last 106 years.

During a ceremony today at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, Andreone was presented the Order of the Legion of Honor medal by the Consul General of France. It is the highest honor bestowed by France and was established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte.

Andreone and fellow WWII veteran Harold Stephens, of Ocala, were recognized.

“We are honored here today to honor both of you who fought on French soil during WWII during the worst of times,” Clement Leclerc, consul general of France in Miami, said, adding the United States and France continue to fight together and have long been valued allies.  “This presentation ceremony is a way for my country to thank you.”

Andreone was recommended for the honor by his relatives. He served as a staff sergeant in World War II in the 10th Armored Division, 3rd Army, under Gen. George Patton. He is the recipient of three Bronze stars.

“We are so proud of him,” said Andreone’s nephew Bob Valentino, who flew in from California for the ceremony. “He’s the family jewel. I’ve seen him honored so many times for so many things. I just said to (his wife) Aunt Bettey, what’s next?”

Andreone, who still golfs twice a week at Palm Aire Country Club and shot a hole-in-one at age 103, is the oldest member of the PGA of America. He turned 106 on Sept. 30. The PGA of America was on site, as well, to film the occasion.