Nepali trekking entrepreneur Ang Norbu Sherpa was conferred with highest French civil distinction “Knight of the Legion of Honour” in recognition of his outstanding contribution in saving lives of French tourists during the earthquakes of April and May 2015.

Ambassador of France to Nepal Yves Carmona conferred the highest French civilian distinction on Sherpa, on behalf of President of the French Republic, at the Residence of France on Wednesday.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Carmona said, “You saved, at your own risk, the lives of many of our compatriots.  You chartered helicopters to search for the missing French, alive or dead, in extreme conditions - bad weather, numerous and violent aftershocks, landslides and rock fall, and we are very grateful for that.”

 “I am very humbled that the Government of France has bestowed me this honour which I will cherish forever.  France holds a special place in my heart and I have deep relations with France, both professionally and personally,” said Managing Sherpa, who Director of Adventure 6000 Company Private Limited, while accepting the honour.

The Legion d’Honneur, created in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, la Légion d’Honneur (“the Legion of Honour”) is the highest civilian award given by the French Republic for outstanding service to France, regardless of the nationality of the recipients. The President of the French Republic is the Grand Master of the Order of the Legion of Honour.