East County WWII veteran knighted into the Legion of Honor

The honor is only awarded to United States veterans who fought on French soil.

By Lesley Dwyer
| 12:31 p.m. May 9, 2025

Platoon Sgt. John Skeen is honored at the Elks Lodge in Lakewood Ranch May 8 on Victory in Europe Day.

East County
Neighbors

Platoon Sgt. John Skeen has received a countless honors, including a Purple Heart, for his service in World War II, yet Skeen said he never expected to be knighted in the Order of the Legion of Honor.

The distinction is the highest honor France awards to military personnel and civilians. United States veterans, who fought on French territory during the Second World War, can also be inducted to the legion.

At 106 years old, Skeen is living history.

“This young man fought in the Pacific (War),” Major Gen. James Hartsell said. “He didn’t get enough, so they sent him to Europe, and he fought in Germany and France, so thank you.”

One by one, dignitaries continued to thank Skeen for his service at the Lakewood Ranch-Sarasota Elks Lodge on May 8.

Retired Army Capt. Thomas Carter organized the event for Victory in Europe day, which celebrates the day that German forces unconditionally surrendered during the Second World War and liberated Europe 80 years ago.

“Your attitude and courage during World War II battles contributed to the restoration of peace in Europe,” France's Consul Gen. Raphael Trapp told Skeen. “You set an example that we all must keep in mind because you fought for the values that define our two nations — liberty and democracy.”

Deacon John Schaefer leads the opening prayer.

Edward Baldez, Veterans and Military liaison for Congressman Vern Buchanan, presents Platoon Sgt. John Skeen with a proclamation from the congressman.

The Presentation of Colors kicks off the award ceremony.

Major Gen. James "Hammer" Hartsell tells a story about escorting Platoon Sgt. John Skeen to the Stanley Cup playoffs last year. He said Skeen and his grandchildren were only 100 years apart in age, but the kids were enthralled and enamored by the veteran.

Over 100 people are in attendance to see Platoon Sgt. John Skeen receive the Knight of Legion Honor.

France's Consul General Raphael Trapp thanks Platoon Sgt. John Skeen for his service and presents him with the Knight of Legion Honor Award.

Manatee County Deputy County Administrator Bryan Parnell and County Administrator Charlie Bishop are both veterans. Parnell served in the Navy, and Bishop served in the Air Force.

Ray Carter attends the event that his brother Capt. Thomas Carter organized for Victory in Europe Day.

Capt. Thomas Carter and Brig. Gen. Nicolas Chabut are part of the ceremony May 8 at the Lakewood Ranch Elks Lodge.

author

Lesley Dwyer

Lesley Dwyer is a staff writer for East County and a graduate of the University of South Florida. After earning a bachelor’s degree in professional and technical writing, she freelanced for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Lesley has lived in the Sarasota area for over 25 years.