Les Brown, a Second World War veteran who participated in the D-Day landings, has died at the age of 99. Tributes have poured in for the 'true hero' who served with the Royal Marines and helped liberate France and Western Europe.
A true hero, a Second World War veteran who participated in the D-Day landings in France ahead of the Allied liberation of Nazi-occupied Europe, has died at the age of 99. Les Brown , as he was known, passed away peacefully last month, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and service. Les, who joined the Royal Marines at the young age of 17, was among the first soldiers ashore at Normandy on June 6, 1944, as part of Operation Neptune, the naval component of the larger Operation Overlord.
His role involved meticulously mapping out the Normandy beaches, providing crucial navigation assistance for fellow soldiers who followed. Tender tributes pour in from various corners, including town hall officials and the Royal British Legion, who hailed Les as a true hero. They emphasized that his spirit and exceptional service will continue to inspire generations to come. Les, hailing from the Hare Hill area of Littleborough in Rochdale, was widely regarded as Rochdale's oldest serving member of the Armed Forces. His passing coincides with the upcoming 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, marking a poignant moment for the council and the armed forces community. Recognizing his valor and dedication, Les was bestowed with the Legion d'Honneur, France's highest distinction in its order of chivalry. Established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, this prestigious medal is awarded for military merit. John 'Jock' Mooney, chairman of the Rochdale branch of the Royal British Legion, expressed his heartfelt condolences, stating that Les was a true hero instrumental in liberating France and Western Europe. He underscored the profound impact Les's death has on the Armed Forces community but affirmed that his spirit and extraordinary service will endure. Councillor Janet Emsley, Rochdale council's lead member for the Armed Forces, echoed these sentiments, describing Les as a brave and courageous soldier who fought for freedom, liberty, and values. She highlighted that Les will be remembered with deep respect as the armed forces community comes together to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the war. A private funeral service for Les was held late last week
LES BROWN D-DAY SECOND WORLD WAR VETERAN OBITUARY NORMANDY OPERATION OVERLORD ROYAL MARINES LEGION D'honneur ROYAL BRITISH LEGION
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