Who was Francis 'Jim' Grant and what was his role on D-Day?

Francis 'Jim' Grant was a Royal Marine veteran who operated anti-aircraft guns from a Landing Craft Flak, providing covering fire for troops landing on Sword Beach during the D-Day invasions.

What other significant WWII battles did Francis Grant participate in?

Besides D-Day, Francis Grant also took part in the significant Battle of the Scheldt in 1944, which was key to opening the port of Antwerp.

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D-Day Veteran, 101, Escorted Allied Troops to Normandy

Q: What honors did Francis Grant receive for his service?

Francis Grant was a recipient of France's highest national order of merit, the Legion d'honneur, for his wartime contributions.

7 Jan

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Summary

Veteran Francis Grant provided covering fire on Sword Beach.
He served in the Royal Marines from 1943 to 1946.
Grant was awarded France's highest national order of merit.

D-Day Veteran, 101, Escorted Allied Troops to Normandy

A distinguished Royal Marine veteran, Francis 'Jim' Grant, has passed away at the age of 101. Grant played a crucial role on D-Day, June 6, 1944, operating anti-aircraft guns from his Landing Craft Flak to shield troops landing on Sword Beach. His service extended beyond D-Day, including participation in the vital Battle of the Scheldt later in 1944, which was instrumental in opening the port of Antwerp.

Grant's military career began in 1943 when he joined the Royal Marines at just 18 years old, serving until 1946. During his service, he patrolled beaches and escorted Allied forces across Sword, Gold, and Juno beaches. His bravery and service were recognized with France's highest national order of merit, the Legion d'honneur.

In recent times, Mr. Grant remained an active member of his community and a symbol of remembrance. He attended the Remembrance Sunday service in London in November and the annual D-Day ceremony in France in June. His local Royal Naval Association Branch expressed profound sadness at his passing, stating his watch was complete.