Today, Thursday, Arabi Jawa (98 years old), a Moroccan veteran who participated in World War II and the Indochina War, was decorated with the Legion of Honor, Knight Rank, by the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron.
During the decoration ceremony held at the National Cemetery of Boulouris in Saint-Raphaël to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Provence landings, President Macron said: “Mr. Arabi Jawa, in the name of the French Republic, I bestow upon you the Legion of Honor, Knight Rank.”
Mr. Jawa was accompanied at the ceremony by his fellow soldier Abdellah Jabir (103 years old), who received the Legion of Honor in 2014.
Mr. Jawa stated to the Maghreb Arab Press Agency: “I am very proud and greatly honored to receive this medal, which we rightfully deserve,” adding, “We overcame many difficulties for this.”
The ceremony was attended by heads of state and government from countries that fought alongside the Allies to liberate France during World War II (1939-1945), including Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, who represented His Majesty King Mohammed VI at the event.
Arabi Jawa, born in the city of Khénifra, joined the army on February 4, 1943, at the age of 18. From December of the same year, he participated in the Italian campaign where he distinguished himself in Monte Cassino, demonstrating exceptional composure and bravery, for which he was awarded the Brigade Medal.
After World War II, starting June 14, 1950, he was re-enlisted in the 6th Moroccan Tirailleurs Regiment and participated twice in the Indochina War. During the fierce RC4 battles, he was seriously wounded in the Dong Khê area but continued to carry out his duties. He then returned for a second campaign in Indochina from June 7, 1953, to June 22, 1955.
Arabi Jawa, who was promoted to the rank of sergeant on April 1, 1955, ended his service in 1956 and returned to his hometown.
