Blood shed during World War II never is far from Joseph E. Pawlik’s mind.

In addition to scrapbook photos, medals and recordings of the war stories he once told, a piece of shrapnel still lodged near his spine serves as a reminder.

Pawlik, now 89, was struck by artillery fire in 1944, during the invasion of Normandy at the Battle of Merderet River.

“He carries with him an all-too-difficult memory of his service that day,” said Assemblyman Robin Schimminger, D-Kenmore.

Monday afternoon, with small American flags on the laps of many in a room at Buffalo’s Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Pawlik was named chevalier — the equivalent of “knight” in English — of the Legion of Honor by the French government for his contribution to France’s liberation during World War II.

The honor, dating back to 1802 under Napoleon, was conferred April 16 in a decree by French President Nicolas Sarkozy.

“Today, you are our hero,” said Pascal Soares, honorary consul of France in Buffalo, as he presented Pawlik the honor.

As a young man in Buffalo’s Black Rock neighborhood, Pawlik was eager to assist his country at war. He enlisted as a paratrooper and served as a technical sergeant.

Pawlik’s selfless nature would carry him through the war.

Three months after receiving a Purple Heart as a result of fighting at Merderet River, Pawlik was back in the front lines.

He didn’t want to leave the troops,” his daughter Terry Hans explained. “They needed him.”

In 1945, on a bitter winter day at Dead Man’s Ridge in Belgium, no one needed Pawlik more than his sergeant, who was wounded. As others took safety in their foxhole, Pawlik left his comfort zone to help his comrade to safety.

“His service is unparalleled,” Schimminger said.

Hans described her father as being “excited” for the honor.

“A lot of young people don’t even remember we had a war,” Pawlik said, with his new honor proudly pinned to his sport coat.

Hans said more that 180 minutes of her father’s stories about the war have been recorded.

One accolade after another was bestowed Monday upon Pawlik, who is currently staying in the VA Medical Center.

Schimminger presented Pawlik the New York State Conspicuous Service Award, which honors citizens such as Pawlik who “lived through the most difficult times.”

North Common Council Member Joseph Golombek, Jr. presented a proclamation declaring July 13 “Joseph E. Pawlik Day” in Buffalo.

“We’re very proud,” Hans said. “It’s wonderful that he is still here.”

James Benz, a Vietnam veteran, was on hand as his friend was honored. “I’m very proud,” Benz, 61, said of Pawlik. “He’s like another father to me.”

The VA staff also recognized Pawlik’s contribution.

“You have not been forgotten here at home,” said Nancy Kaszynski, recreation therapist at the VA Medical Center “Thank you so much for your sacrifices.”

Surrounded by family and friends, Pawlik replied: “You’re welcome.”