
George Chandler, a distinguished D-Day veteran of the British Royal Navy, passed away at the age of 99.
At a Glance
- George Chandler served as a Royal Navy gunner during the 1944 Normandy invasion.
- His flotilla escorted U.S. troops to Omaha and Utah beaches, witnessing severe combat.
- A navigation error led to U.S. troops landing off course, resulting in high casualties.
- Chandler passed away on October 19, 2024, from pneumonia.
- His family plans to scatter his ashes in the Adriatic Sea.
Chandler’s Role in D-Day
George Chandler’s significant contribution to the D-Day landings involved serving as a gunner on a British motor torpedo boat. His flotilla, operating tirelessly for about three months, escorted American troops to the crucial Omaha and Utah beaches. Despite being a perilous mission, Chandler’s dedication to truthfully recounting the harsh realities of war offered a sobering contrast to glamorized portrayals of the event.
Chandler remarked, “Due to a navigation error, the Americans were landed a mile and a half too far to the west, and were slaughtered as they came in. Half of them didn’t have time to get off their assault craft. It was something I wouldn’t want anybody to watch. Very brave men.”
#RIP former Royal Navy gunner and D-Day veteran George Chandler who has passed away at the age of 99. Chandler served on a torpedo boat during the invasion of Normandy on 6 June 1944, escorting U.S. Army troops to Omaha and Utah beaches. pic.twitter.com/Vn7nbrB0uZ
— U.S. Naval Institute (@NavalInstitute) October 28, 2024
Chandler’s Post-War Life and Legacy
Post-war, George Chandler embarked on a fulfilling career with the General Post Office and British Telecommunications, retiring in the 1980s. Despite losing his sight later in life, Chandler remained active in veteran affairs and planned to lead the Blind Veterans UK contingent at the Remembrance Sunday ceremonies, a testament to his enduring commitment and spirit.
“George was a larger-than-life figure that brought so much joy to all of those who met him,” A spokesman for Blind Veterans UK said of Chandler.
Chandler’s ashes will be scattered in the Adriatic Sea, honoring both his life and the historical moments he witnessed. His granddaughters will continue his legacy by marching in his place at the upcoming ceremonies.
Impact of a Veteran’s Experience
Chandler’s firsthand accounts of D-Day confront the sanitized narratives frequently depicted. His words serve as a solemn reminder of the reality faced by those who fought against tyranny. Chandler’s legacy endures, informing future generations about the profound sacrifices made by brave men during World War II.
Chandler famously stated, “Let me assure you, what you read in those silly books that have been written about D-Day are absolute crap. It’s a load of old rubbish. I was there, how can I forget it?”
He will be remembered as a man who bravely shared the brutal truths of war, ensuring that the past remains visible and respected.
Sources
- D-Day veteran, 99, dies ahead of Remembrance Sunday
- UK D-Day Veteran George Chandler, Who Escorted American Troops to Normandy Beaches, Dies at 99
- UK D-Day veteran George Chandler, who escorted American troops to Normandy beaches, dies at 99