Normandy veteran Richard Aldred passes away

The 101-year-old who became an Honorary Citizen of Bourneville-Sainte-Croix, has passed away

Author: Oliver MorganPublished 11th Mar 2026

Normandy veteran Richard Aldred has passed away at the age of 101.

Aldred, who served as a tank driver in the 7th Armoured Division during World War II, died over the weekend.

His division landed on Gold Beach by 7th June, 1944, taking part in pivotal battles including Operation Perch and Operation Goodwood, which were part of the Battle for Caen.

He remembered the harrowing experience when his tank was blown up near Bourneville. Aldred recalled taking cover with his surviving crew members under a roadside crucifix and said they all prayed that day.

In recognition of his contributions, Aldred became an Honorary Citizen of Bourneville-Sainte-Croix on the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

He visited the British Normandy Memorial numerous times, with support from The Spirit of Normandy Trust, sharing his memories and experiences of the war.

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