Brighton College Remembers D-Day

80 years ago, on 6 June 1944, the Allied invasion of Western Europe began, with the airborne and amphibious landings of thousands of soldiers in Normandy. The landings were a success, securing the Allies a foothold in France.

To mark this anniversary, we remember the sacrifices of the Old Brightonians who died during the D-Day campaign.

EDWARD HERBERT KENNEY (SC. 1934-39)

Died 8 June 1944

Edward was a member the Life Guards, serving as a trooper, and died of his wounds on the third day of the campaign.

PAUL GILBERT FRANKLIN (DU. 1927-30)

Died 14 June 1944

Paul enlisted in the 3rd Regiment of the Royal Horse Artillery, which landed in Normandy soon after the invasion. Eight days after D-Day he was killed in Operation Perch, an attempt to capture Caen.A heart-breaking letter, from Paul’s father, survives in the archive:...of course it is a terrible blow to us, but we are not railing against our fate, but are very thankful for 31 years of the joy he gave us.

RAYMOND CHARLES BELCHER (SC. 1935-36)

Died 6 June 1944

For D-Day, ‘Bunny’ was placed in charge of a Harbour Party, parachutists who were among the first units to land on French territory, reconnoitre, and secure strategically important points. His aircraft crashed en-route, killing everyone on board. They were among the first men to die on D-Day.

JOSEPH GUEST HOLMAN (WA. 1920-24)

Died 8 June 1944

Holman served in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps, which kept the army supplied and repaired equipment.Two days after D-Day, his unit was sent to France as part of a force of reconnaissance units. His boat was torpedoed en route, and Holman was lost.

If you ever find yourself in Normandy, consider visiting the graves or memorials of these fallen. We welcome any photographs you take during your visit.

You can access our Remembrance Map here.