York awards Freedom of the City to D-Day veteran Ken Cooke
Ken Cooke honoured by council for wartime service
York's last surviving Normandy veteran, Ken Cooke, has been awarded the Freedom of the City in recognition of his contributions during the Second World War and his dedication to veterans' affairs.
At the age of 18, Cooke took part in the D-Day landings on 6th June 1944. Today, the City of York Council voted unanimously in favour of granting him this rare civic honour.
Conservative councillor Martin Rowley, who nominated Cooke, cited his significant efforts in remembrance events and contributions to veterans’ welfare as pivotal to the decision.
Rowley, a veteran himself, praised Cooke as one of York's "living treasures" and highlighted the importance of firsthand accounts, contrasting them to textbook learnings.
Throughout his life, Cooke has been committed to educating younger generations by delivering talks to schools and community groups, ensuring the sacrifices made by his peers are not forgotten.
On D-Day, Cooke recalled the urgency to move off the beaches under dangerous conditions. Despite sustaining injuries from a mortar bomb weeks later, he continued to share his experiences and legacy.
With Cooke joining family and friends, the award ceremony today was a deeply moving moment for those in attendance, including members of the public encouraged to witness this noteworthy tribute.