EDEN — Paul Prewitt is adjusting to the idea of knighthood and having plenty of chuckles as his friends and fellow veterans rib him and genuflect in his honor.

The 99-year-old, who served under Gen. George S. Patton during his 2½ years of duty in Europe during World War II, will be made a Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Armor by the French government on Jan. 16 when a French consul general travels to Rockingham County to bestow the honor.

“I’m taking a lot of kidding from a lot of people. They’re always trying to curtsy when they see me,’’ Prewitt said with a laugh on Monday.

“It is an honor, and they are proud. I’m proud,’’ said Prewitt, who will gather with friends and family for the ceremony at the American Legion in Reidsville.