February 28, 2000

Retired Gen. Al Ungerleider, president of the U.S. World War II Wall of Liberty Foundation, pins the French Medale de Jubile on Yogi Berra for his service in the Navy during the D-day invasion of Normandy

Yogi Berra recently was awarded the French Medale de Jubile for his service in the U.S. Navy during the D-day invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. France continues to honor former American soldiers who helped free them from occupation by Nazi Germany. More than 30 veterans attended the Feb. 14 ceremony honoring the 74-year-old Berra at the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center. He was presented the medal by retired Gen. Al Ungerleider, president of the U.S. World War II Wall of Liberty Foundation. Ungerleider also took part in the invasion.

Berra, who served in the Navy from 1943-45, was a gunner on a ship about 300 yards off Omaha Beach. He also took part in anti-aircraft defense to protect the Army troops as they breached the German defenses ashore.

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