Arthur awarded the Freedom of Lille. November 29th 1998.
Arthur Staggs thought he was visiting Lille in Northern France to take part in the annual remembrance service and commemoration marking the death of one of his former Special Operations Executive colleague reseau organisor Michael Trotobas, (Sylvestre`) In fact Arthur was guest of honour at the commemoration and was presented with the freedom of the city of Lille , Held in a moving ceremony in the cities magnificent town hall . attended by French British and Belgium army officers ,The Mayor & City dignities , British Consul Monica Harper. But most important of all his old resistance comrades .
Marie Jeanne Bouchez former resistor and former girlfriend Of Michel Trotobas . Monica Harper British Consul , Arthur and the formidable Yves Steenkeste.former resistor and personal bodyguard to Arthur in France.