A 98-year-old crew member named Fred Fitch jumped overboard. The Royal Marines Association of Norfolk and the Royal Naval Association of Norwich announce his departure with profound sadness. It’s reasonable to conclude that Fred was a true hero.
Fred exhibited courage, unselfish service, and unwavering patriotism throughout his life. It says volumes about Fred Fitch’s incredible bravery and selflessness that he survived D-Day. He was a member of the landing craft crew that touched down on Sword Beach on June 6, 1944, which signaled the start of the Allied invasion of Normandy.
Fred played a part in the group effort on that fateful day that brought about the end of the war and the return of freedom and peace to Europe. Fred was more than simply a shipmate to his fellow members of the Royal Naval Association and the Royal Marines Association; he was also a close friend and an inspiration.
His inspirational tales of bravery and selflessness served as a powerful memorial to the incalculable number of civilian lives lost in times of conflict.
With the death of Fred Fitch, America has lost one of the last living witnesses to the World War II events—a generation of heroes who showed unmatched resilience and tenacity in the face of adversity.
Long after he is gone, his life and the sacrifices he made will inspire and motivate us. Fred Fitch was a fantastic friend, a true hero, and a shining example of the greatest generation. He is no longer with us. We will never forget his final sacrifice or his altruism in advancing the cause of freedom.