The family of a war hero returned to the village in France where he earned his Victoria Cross.
To mark the centenary of him receiving the medal – the military’s highest accolade – Christopher Cox’s family travelled to Achiet-le-Grand to attend a ceremony led by the mayor Bernard De Rue.
His family were joined by Kings Langley Parish Council members and Dacorum Borough Council leader Bob McLean. A framed picture of Kings Langley and a replica of the paving slab given to a village where someone has been awarded a VC were presented to Achiet’s mayor.
In turn, he presented Mr Cox’s family with a copy of the plaque that is at Christopher’s memorial.
READ MORE: Why is Kings Langley twinned with Achiet-le-Grand?
His lifelong home, Kings Langley, was twinned with Achiet-le-Grand in 2009, in recognition of his bravery while fighting on the battlefield there.
Mr Cox, who died in 1959, risked his life to save several soldiers and took part in an attack on German defences in the Battle of the Somme.
Despite being wounded during the battle, Mr Cox recovered and served a second winter at the front.
The father-of-eight died at home at the age of 69, and was buried in All Saints’ cemetery.
His VC medal is on loan to the Imperial War Museum in London.
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