DAVENPORT, Iowa — 99-year-old World War II engineer veteran Henry Langrehr was honored by the Iowa National Guard on Sunday, Aug. 18, receiving the Silver de Fleury medal.
The award recognizes veterans who served at least two decades and made a significant impact in the military.
"I'm humbled to be here," Henry Langrehr said. "It's an honor to think that they think enough of you to give you a gift of some kind, well an award."
Henry served in the 82nd Airborne Division within the 307th Engineer Battalion. He was a paratrooper on D-Day before he was captured by German troops and held as a prisoner of war. He would eventually escape imprisonment and make it back to his allies.
"I'm glad to come home to America, because America is my home," said Langrehr.
His family wouldn't miss the presentation for the world. They've produced three generations of soldiers, beginning with Henry and going all the way to his great-grandson, Nate.
"It's a privilege just to be here and be able to see and take part," Nate Langrehr said. "It's really fun. It's nice to see him be honored in this way."
Nate grew up hearing his great-grandfather's tales. He would follow in his great-grandfather's footsteps, joining the same battalion as his hero.
"Growing up as a kid, hearing those stories built a real immense pride and desire to emulate that to some degree," Nate said.
The spotlight's not normally on Henry.
"I don't know if he likes the attention, but I think he's very honored by it," Nate added.
But Henry says Sunday's ceremony was more than he could ask for.
"Today our ceremony was over the top, as far as I'm concerned. Over the top. To meet so many good people again, they make you feel really humble," Henry said.
