“We shook hands and I went home. But I have since discovered that I was entitled to an award in recognition of my service.”

Mr. Dodd served hundreds of soldiers at a time, while using his training as a chef to teach his fellow kitchen staff.

Mr Dodd, whose wife Joyce died in 1998, worked at Trafford Park for 35 years after leaving the army.

He praised Ms Titterington, who helps him organize his daily care and other support, saying: “She has a lovely personality, she is always smiling.

“She organizes things for me and makes my day better, I will never forget her.”

After being released, Mr Dodd, who was widowed in 1998, worked at High Voltage Switch Gear Ltd in Trafford Park for 35 years.

His nieces, Samantha and Alison, have also tried over the years to get Mr Dodd his medal and will accompany him to the Remembrance Sunday service in St Peter’s Square, Manchester city centre, where he said he would wear his badge with pride.