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BOSTON - As a child, Dave Powers didn't know much about his father's time in the United States Army during World War II.

"He didn't talk about it until maybe four or five years ago, when he started talking about it more and more," Powers said. "Before that, he couldn't talk about it at all."

Thomas Powers, 83, a native of Pawtucket who now lives in in Seekonk, served in the 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division.

He has received the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Croix de Guerre with Palm for his service.

Although his family always viewed him as a hero, they never expected him to gain international recognition for helping the United States and France at Normandy during World War II. But the elder Powers was honored one more time on Saturday morning, this time with the French Legion of Honor - France's highest distinction -along with 11 of his fellow World War II veterans.

Three honorees couldn't attend the ceremony, although two were represented by their sons; an additional honoree was awarded the Legion of Honor posthumously.

The "Lafayette nous voilà" event commemorated the 250th anniversary of the birth of the Marquis de Lafayette, a revolutionary who aided America in its quest for independence from Britain, as well as the 16 veterans from New England.

The event began at the Lafayette Monument on Boston Common before moving beneath a tent nearby.

The official Legion of Honor ceremony to recognize the veterans began at 11a.m. French Ambassador to the United States Jean-David Levitte, who was scheduled to head the ceremony, was called away on official business and was represented by François Gauthier, the consulate general.

Gauthier read a speech written by Levitte, and extended his deepest gratitude to the veterans. A message from newly elected French President Nicolas Sarkozy was read in both English and French.

"France will never forget the men who willingly made the supreme sacrifice to liberate our soil, our homeland and our continent," Sarkozy's message said. "You have forever earned the esteem, gratitude and affection of the entire French nation."

After remarks by numerous military and government officials, the veterans each received their Legion of Honor recognition from Gauthier.

Watching Powers receive the Legion of Honor was especially meaningful for his sons, who are Vietnam war veterans.

"You take pride in your father being acknowledged for something he did so many years ago," the younger Powers said. "It's so emotional it's unbelievable. Especially being in the military, my brother and I, it's just amazing. Powers' grandson, Sean Powers, is also following in his family's footsteps by joining the military; he is currently stationed in Texas and has served in Iraq.

Three generations of Powers men have served in the military, and they all recognize the importance of what the eldest Powers did at Normandy more than 60 years ago.

"It's extremely significant to recognize the contributions that citizens made not only to the U.S., but to France also," said Powers' other son, Don Powers. "It's just amazing to be a part of this."