Photo credit: www.yahoo.com
Tributes Paid to D-Day Veteran Dennis Donovan
Dennis Donovan, a centenarian and veteran of D-Day, has passed away at the age of 100. He served with the 48 (Royal Marine) Commando and was among the forces that hit the shores of Normandy, specifically landing at Juno Beach on June 6, 1944.
Notably, Donovan and his unit made their landing without helmets, equipped only with their iconic green berets. They landed in conjunction with the Canadian North Shore (New Brunswick) Regiment as part of a significant operation that would mark a pivotal moment in World War II.
A representative from the Canadian Juno Beach Centre Museum expressed deep sorrow at the news of Donovan’s passing. “It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of British veteran Dennis Donovan. The museum team sends their sincere condolences,” the spokesman noted.
According to estimates from the Ministry of Defence, approximately 70 to 80 veterans from the D-Day landings are still living today. As time progresses, the number of those who directly participated in these historic events continues to dwindle, making each tribute and remembrance all the more significant.
Details from a Royal Marines History page highlight Donovan’s courageous actions upon arrival at Juno Beach. He and the Canadian forces faced intense resistance, with their battle commencing even before they reached the sandy shore. The commando unit fought through fierce enemy fire while trying to advance through St Aubin-sur-Mer and onto Langrune-sur-Mer, suffering substantial casualties of around 25 percent.
During the following days, Donovan and his comrades continued to confront heavy opposition, engaging in a series of intense battles and sustaining further losses. Their relentless campaign included fighting through key locations such as Sallenelles, Drouvres–La-Déliverande, and Pegasus Bridge, remaining in the area for nearly three months while occupying minimal trench shelters.
Donovan later returned to the UK for signals training and rejoined his unit, which had undergone significant changes following Operations Infatuate and the liberation of Walcheren. His unit subsequently engaged in operations along the river Meuse/Maas, continuing their fight against German forces in challenging wetland terrain until the conclusion of the conflict.
On a personal note, Donovan celebrated his 21st birthday during his service, a milestone that highlighted the youth of those involved in such crucial events. After the war’s end, he was deployed to Minden, Germany, tasked with overseeing the clearing of areas for the Royal Navy headquarters while also helping to protect local farmers and their families from the chaos ensuing from the war’s aftermath.
Donovan’s story is a reminder of the valor and sacrifice of those who fought during one of history’s most significant military operations. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through the memories of those who knew him and the countless young lives he impacted through his service.
Source
www.yahoo.com