Norman Bartlett sang with the Hart Male Voice Choir for many years as a top tenor and, until his death earlier this year, was the Father of the Choir. Norman was proud of both his naval career which included involvement on a destroyer supporting D-Day, and also of his family. On 30th September 2025, the family received a letter to inform them that he has been awarded the rank of “Chevalier in the Ordre national de la Legion d’Honneur” by decree of 13 June 2025. The award recognises Norman’s military engagement and steadfast involvement in the Liberation of France during the Second World War and is given by the French President in recognition of the recipient’s exemplary service rendered to France.
Norman passed away earlier this year, ten days short of his 99th birthday. Norman was a veteran of WW2 serving at sea both with the Atlantic convoys and later, in the recovery of thousands of British POWs at the end of the way against Japan. As we contemplate this Europe of peace, we must never forget the heroes like Norman who came from Britain and the Commonwealth to win the freedom and security we enjoy today. Please see a photo of Norman’s award above..