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🌺🇬🇧 We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Francis ‘Jim’ Grant, a D-Day veteran who has died aged 101. Jim served with the Royal Marines, joining aged just 18 in 1943. On June 6, 1944, he manned one of two anti-aircraft guns aboard a Landing Craft Flak, providing vital covering fire for Allied troops landing on Sword Beach during the Normandy landings. He later took part in the crucial Battle of the Scheldt, helping to open the port of Antwerp, before completing his service in 1946. A much-loved president of the Stowmarket Royal Naval Association Branch, Jim remained actively involved in remembrance well into his later years, attending Remembrance Sunday in London last November and the annual D-Day commemorations in France this June. He celebrated his 101st birthday on December 20, 2025. A holder of France’s highest national honour, the Legion d’honneur, Jim’s courage, humility and lifelong commitment to remembrance will never be forgotten. As his branch said so fittingly: “Rest easy shipmate, your watch is complete.” We extend our deepest condolences to Jim’s family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Lest we forget. 🌺 📰 Source: Suffolk News