LONDON (AP) – Donald Rose, Britain’s oldest World War II veteran, has passed away at the remarkable age of 110. Rose, who was born on December 24, 1914, became known for his significant contributions during the war, particularly his participation in the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944. In addition to this pivotal moment in history, he was part of the division that liberated the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in northern Germany, an event that profoundly impacted the course of the war and the treatment of Holocaust survivors.
In a heartfelt statement issued on Friday, James Dawson, the leader of the Erewash Borough Council located in northern England, confirmed Rose's death while honoring him as a "war hero." Dawson expressed pride in having Rose as a resident of the Erewash area, highlighting the community's respect for the veteran's brave service to the country.
Just a few months prior to his passing, in May 2023, Rose participated in a tea party celebration hosted by the Royal British Legion at the National Memorial Arboretum. This event marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), a significant milestone in world history. Rose joined 45 other veterans as guests of honor at this commemorative gathering, reflecting on the efforts and sacrifices made during the war.
During the VE Day celebration, Rose shared a poignant recollection of his experiences during the war. He mentioned that he did not celebrate VE Day at the time, as he was stationed in Germany at Bergen-Belsen. “When I heard that the armistice had been signed 80 years ago, I was in Germany at Belsen, and, like most active soldiers, I didn’t get to celebrate at that time,” he said. Instead, the veteran expressed that the soldiers focused on their duties, finding relief only in the knowledge that the war was finally over.
Rose hailed from Westcott, a village located southwest of London. At the age of 23, he enlisted in the army and served extensively across various battlefields, including North Africa, Italy, and France. His courageous service did not go unnoticed; he received numerous medals throughout his military career, including France’s highest honor, the Legion d’Honneur. Such recognitions underscore his significant contributions and dedication to the Allied war efforts.
Not only is Donald Rose remembered for his military service, but he also holds the distinction of being believed to be the oldest man in the United Kingdom at the time of his passing. His longevity and vivid accounts of World War II serve as critical reminders of the sacrifices made by those who fought and lived through one of history’s most tumultuous periods.
As tributes pour in from various quarters, the legacy of Donald Rose continues to inspire current and future generations, reminding them of the important lessons learned during the war and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.
