WINTER PARK, Fla. – Maj. Gen. John C. Raaen Jr., the last surviving U.S. Army Ranger who took part in the initial assault on Omaha Beach on D-Day, received the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony at The Mayflower at Winter Park on Wednesday.

The 103-year-old veteran was honored in an event that included the presentation and retirement of colors by the U.S. Army 75th Ranger Regiment Color Guard. The ceremony also featured remarks from leaders of the Descendants of WWII Ranger, Inc., and the U.S. Army Ranger Regiment, along with instrumental music performed by a Rollins College combo.

[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos ]

Congress authorized the medal to recognize U.S. Army Rangers who served in World War II. President Joe Bi

See Full Page