Toledo native and WWII veteran William W. Provonsha, 95, will be awarded France’s highest distinction for his participation in the liberation of France during World War II.
On June 15, Consul General of France to the Midwest region, Guillaume LaCroix, will officially present the Legion of Honor medal to Staff Sgt. Provonsha at the Friendship Park Community Center. Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz will also be in attendance.
Staff Sergeant Provonsha was a member of the 381st Bombardment Group (H) – 532nd Bombardment Squadron – 8th Air Force.
He completed 22 combat missions over France and Germany onboard B-17 bombers, before being shot down and taken prisoner.
He spent 13 months in captivity before successfully escaping in April 1945.
He was awarded the Prisoner of War Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with 5 Oak Leaf Clusters, the European African Middle Eastern Ribbon with 5 Battle Stars, the Good Conduct Medal, the WWII Victory Medal and the Presidential Unit Citation with Oak Leaf Cluster.
The Legion of Honor is the highest distinction that France can bestow upon those who have achieved remarkable deeds for France.
Founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, the National Order of the Legion of Honor recognizes eminent service to the French Republic. Recipients of this honor are named by decree signed by the President of the Republic.