George Chandler: D-Day veteran, 99, dies ahead of Memorial service Sunday

For nearly three months, Mr. Chandler’s squadron returned to Newhaven each night to refuel and rearm and sleep for a few hours before crossing the Channel.

After the Normandy campaign his boat was deployed to the Mediterranean and was damaged before sinking in April 1945.

After the war Mr Chandler worked at the General Post Office and then BT before retiring in the 1980s, giving him more time to enjoy his true passion for golf. He was an honorary life member of Haywards Heath Golf Club.

A spokesman for Blind Veterans UK, which supports Mr Chandler, said: “We offer our sincerest condolences to George’s son Paul and all his family and friends.

“George was the guest of honor at our special D-Day anniversary dinner in June this year, 80 years after the invasion of Normandy.

“He shared his touching memories of the historic day with us, and everyone in the room was moved by his stories.

“George was an extraordinary figure who brought great joy to everyone who met him.”