D-Day veteran who helped clear the way for Normandy Landings dies aged 99
A Second World War veteran who played a key role in a daring commando mission on the eve of D-Day has died aged 99.
Jack Quinn served during the conflict as a member of the Home Guard and later the Royal Marines, taking part in the Normandy Landings and being highly decorated for his actions.
On 5 June 1944, the night before D-Day, he helped clear the way for the landing operation by taking in a group of Commandos near Gold Beach to clear obstacles.
On 6 June 1944, 25,000 British troops from the 50th Division landed on Gold Beach to capture Bayeux and the Caen-Bayeux Road, and to link up with the Americans at Omaha.
Mr Quinn and his comrades operated near Gold Beach and he acted as the coxswain in a landing craft that was used to deploy Commandos the night before the invasion.
Their mission was to clear steel obstructions ahead of the invasion and fasten charges to obstacles.
On the first day, troops advanced six miles inland to join the Canadian 3rd Division.
Following the success of the operation, Mr Quinn was stationed near the beaches for the next few months of the war.
For his actions on D-Day, he was awarded the Croix de Guerre (Silver Star) by the French government.
In November 1944, he was awarded a formal Mention in Despatches for Distinguished Service.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps released a touching tribute to the memory of the former Marine who served during Britain's time of need.
In a post on X, Mr Shapps said: "I was saddened to hear of the death of Normandy veteran Jack Quinn.
"Later this year we will commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day at the British Normandy Memorial, for which Jack was a veteran ambassador.
"He leaves an incredible legacy, and my thoughts are with his loved ones today.
"We will never forget the sacrifice and service of Jack and his comrades."
The British Normandy Memorial also paid tribute, writing on social media: "We are so saddened to learn of the death of D-Day veteran & Memorial Ambassador Jack Quinn, who passed away yesterday, aged 99.
"Jack was a much loved supporter of the Memorial project & last June was appointed Ambassador. Our deepest condolences to Jack's family & friends."
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