We are proud to share the incredible story of Bernard, a cherished resident at The Elms. He celebrated his 100th birthday this year is a true hero who played a significant role in World War II.
A Journey Back to Normandy
On Tuesday, June 4th, Bernard was among 25 former servicemen who made the ferry crossing from Portsmouth to Normandy to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. Dressed in his original D-Day uniform, Bernard honoured those who never made it to shore by laying a wreath at sea.
As an RAF codebreaker in 1945, Bernard deciphered a secret telex that announced the end of the war in Europe: “The German war is now over. The surrender is effective sometime tomorrow.” This momentous message, which Bernard received on May 6, 1945, marked the beginning of a new era of peace.
Reflecting on his time in Normandy, Bernard shared with Crewe Nub News: “On occasions like this, I always think about the three wireless operators that I lost in Normandy. They were the lads bringing me the messages. One of them was 19 and two of them were 20, and whenever I go to Normandy, I always go to their graves.”
His story is featured in the local news and it serves as a testament to the bravery, sacrifice and enduring spirit of our wartime heroes.
