Cadet 'humbled' to support D-Day veteran

Veteran Richard Brock was accompanied by Sergeant Major Marcus Lilley

A 17-year-old cadet has said he was "humbled' to support a 100-year-old D-Day veteran at a service marking 80 years since the landings.

Sergeant Richard Brock served in the East Lancashire Regiment during what was one of the most decisive moments of World War Two.

He went ashore on Gold Beach two days after the initial assault and fought all the way through to Hamburg - becoming one of only 19 soldiers from a company of 130 to survive their deployment.

As part of last week's ceremonies, he gave a reading at the Bayeux Cemetery and was supported by 17-year-old Cadet Company Sergeant Major Marcus Lilley from Lancashire Army Cadet Force.

'Amazing man'

He said the main thing he took away from the experience was the connection he formed with the veteran.

"He's an amazing man to be around," Sgt Major Lilley said.

"He was joking and laughing on the plane over, he loved meeting everyone in the green room and at the ceremony

"He said it was one of the most notable things he's ever done."

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s Bayeux War Cemetery is the final resting place of 4,144 members of British and Commonwealth service personnel who died during the Normandy landings.

Sgt Brock became one of only 19 from a company of 130 soldiers to survive their deployment

Sgt Major Lilley said the graves were lit up in a "breathtaking" display to mark the occasion.

"For a period of time all we could see was the cross in the centre and then all the graves started lighting up around us which was a really beautiful sight to look at," he said.

"Although they're graves and unfortunately mark that people have died, It was just amazing to see the amount of thought that had gone into that production.

"Richard found it amazing, which is good because he's the main man.

"It was just such a simple thing to do, but when you saw it it really did take your breath away."

The cadet's father Adrian, who also attended the ceremony, said he was proud to see his son's involvement.

Mr Lilley, who also volunteers for the Cadet Force, said it was an "amazing experience" for them both.

"It was very emotional," he said.

"The five veterans that went over were great fun. They're old in body but not in mind or spirit. They were absolutely amazing.

"The military sense of humour transcends the ages. Everyone was getting on very well but with sombre thoughts at the back of their mind."