D-Day Veteran Kenneth Hay Dies Aged 101, Normandy Memorial Cites Remarkable Life

Kenneth Hay, a veteran of the D-Day landings who survived capture by German forces, has died at 101 years old. His passing was announced by the British Normandy Memorial, which described him as an "extraordinary gentleman whose remarkable life will never be forgotten."

Mr Hay, originally from Sheffield, was part of the Royal Norfolk Regiment. His unit landed on Sword Beach in June 1944. During the intense fighting following the initial landings, he was captured by German troops. He then spent nearly a year as a prisoner of war before his liberation in 1945.

Following the conflict, Mr Hay returned to the UK and settled in Derby. He became a regular participant in memorial events, travelling back to Normandy for anniversaries and dedications. His presence was notably seen at the opening of the British Normandy Memorial in Ver-sur-Mer in June 2021.

The memorial organisation highlighted Mr Hay's consistent commitment to remembrance, stating that he was "one of the most steadfast attenders at the memorial every year." They added that his contributions to commemorating those lost during the Normandy campaign were invaluable and deeply respected by all.