Félicitations, Monsieur Beliveau.

Even readers who don't speak or read French probably can figure out that we've just offered congratulations to Severin Beliveau. He was honored at the Statehouse Tuesday in a ceremony in which the French ambassador to the United States presented him with the Legion of Honor.

The award recognized his 16 years as Honorary Consul of France and decades of dedication to the Franco-American heritage that means much in this state.

The Legion of Honor is not a routine recognition, no mere handshake. It's a big deal, created by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 and used since to show French esteem for those who do the most.

The decree bestowing the honor on Beliveau was signed by French President Nicholas Sarkozy.

"With kindness, good judgment and sagacity, you have helped scores of French diplomats navigate among the coasts of Maine and to introduce them to the diversity, the beauty and the uniqueness of your special home state," said French Ambassador Pierre Vimont, who presented the award.

Nous sommes fiers de vous.

Indeed, we are proud of you.