Harry Billinge dead aged 96 – one of Britain’s last surviving D-Day heroes dies after decades of service
ONE of Britain's last surviving D-Day heroes has died after decades of service.
Veteran Harry Billinge has passed away at the age of 96 after a short illness, his family has said.
He was appointed an MBE in 2020 after raising more than £25,000 towards the cost of building a national memorial honouring his fallen comrades.
The veteran spent more than 60 years collecting for the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal.
His daughter Sally Billinge-Shandley said: "The passion he had for all the veterans that lost their lives was unwavering.
"He was a man that always gave his word, his word was solid.
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"He always fought in what he believed in."
A spokesman for the Royal British Legion said: "D-Day Veteran and Fundraiser Harry Billinge MBE, Leg d’Hon. sadly passed away today aged 96.
"The Trust sends its deepest condolences to Harry’s wife Sheila, and to all his family and friends.
"Harry raised more than £50,000 for the building of the British Normandy Memorial.
"His tireless and inspirational fundraising will never be forgotten and his legacy will live on for generations to come."
D-Day was the start of Operation Overlord - which was the largest invasion in history.
Over 160,000 troops from Britain and allied countries landed in Normandy during the Second World War.
It marked the beginning of the liberation of France from the Nazis.
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