One of Scotland’s last D-Day veterans has died aged 100.
Albert Lamond’s family issued an emotional tribute to the centenarian, who played a key role in the Allied landings in Normandy with the Royal Navy.
His family spoke of their pride in the centenarian – and said he never thought of himself as a hero.
Mr Lamond was only 18 when he took part in the Allies’ barnstorming invasion of Nazi-occupied France – and served as a signalman aboard HMS Rowley.
He took part in D-Day on June 6, 1944, just a year after joining the Navy.
He also served in the Pacific in the lead-up to VJ Day in August 1945 when Japan finally surrendered.
HMS Rowley was deployed to rendezvous with battleship HMS Warspite as it travelled to Normandy.
The frigate served as the first line of defence for the battleship, circling it as it crossed the Channel, and sailors on board were expected to sacrifice their lives.
Mr Lamond was one of the last surviving D-Day veterans, seen here during his navy days
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PA/ERSKINE VETERANS CHARITY
A year later on VJ Day, he helped evacuate Allied prisoners of war from remote islands and transport them to Australia.
Mr Lamond described the prisoners of war as “living skeletons”, but said they were still able to smile.
On the 80th anniversary of the landing, June 6 2024, he said it was important the next generation understood the realities of war.
He said: “It was horrible. It lives with you forever.
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Mr Lamond carried the memory of those who didn’t make it with him throughout his life
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PA
“If we don’t pass the stories on, people will forget, and we can’t let that happen.”
His nephew, Martin, said: “We’re all deeply saddened by Albert’s passing.
“He was a joy to be around and an example to everyone right up to the last.
He added: “Not only have Albert’s friends and family suffered a great loss, everyone has, even if they never had the pleasure of knowing him.”
Martin said his uncle “carried the memory of those who didn’t make it with him throughout his life”.
Albert Lamond played his part as the Allies stormed Nazi-occupied France
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GETTY
Wing Comander Ian Cumming, chief executive at veterans’ charity Erskine, also paid tribute.
“Albert represented the very best of his generation,” said Mr Cumming. “He spoke honestly about his service, not to glorify war, but to make sure people understood its cost.”
He said Mr Lamond was committed to passing on lessons to the next generation.
The chief executive said Albert had an ever-present twinkle in his eye and a cheeky patter.
Mr Lamond will be laid to rest on Tuesday at Dalnottar Cemetery, Clydebank, with family, friends, and fellow veterans gathering to celebrate his life.
