NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The National World War II Museum and the Ambassador to the United States recognized New Orleans native Samuel Meyer with the “Legion of Honor” award on Tuesday, Feb. 27.
Meyer is best known for his popular hat shop, Meyer The Hatter, but on Tuesday, it was all about his World War II service.
99-year-old Meyer wears lots of hats!
“This is the best hat I own, a Stetson 100,” Meyer said.
One hat he wanted to wear to the National World War II Museum just happens to be his favorite. Another hat he’s wearing is symbolic of his past, he’s wearing his World War II Veteran hat. All these hats are for a special ceremony in his honor. He is receiving the French Legion of Honor medal for his service in the U.S. Air Force in World War II.
Back in 1943, Meyer was stationed on missions throughout Europe including France.
“For what he did, for what he represents as a symbol of that bond between France and the United States,” French Ambassador to the United States Laurent Bili said.
After returning home to New Orleans after the war he started working at his grandfather’s hat shop, the well-known Meyer The Hatter, which is still open today.
“This is a special day. We get to honor one of our closest friends. Mr. Meyer helped save freedom and democracy around the world,” Peter Crean with the National World War II Museum said.
Meyer’s wife is from France.
“So I love France like everyone else,” Meyer said.
Our hats go off to you, Meyer!
Five generations of Meyers have sold hats at Meyer The Hatter since 1894.
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