By Peter Omopo
Albert Lamond, one of Scotland’s last surviving veterans of the D-Day landings, has died at the age of 100.
Mr Lamond, who was born in Glasgow, was just 18 years old when he took part in the Allied invasion of Normandy on 6 June 1944. He served as a signalman in the Royal Navy aboard HMS Rowley, a frigate assigned to protect battleship HMS Warspite during its mission to shell German positions along the Normandy coast.
His family said he never considered himself a hero, believing instead that he was simply doing his duty. They described him as a humble man who carried the memory of fallen comrades with him throughout his life.
In a tribute, his nephew, Martin Lamond, said the family was “deeply saddened” by his passing, describing him as “a joy to be around” and an inspiration to those who knew him. He added that Mr Lamond’s loss was felt not only by family and friends but by the wider community, given the example he set through his life and service.
Mr Lamond joined the Royal Navy in 1943 and survived some of the most dangerous operations of the Second World War. HMS Rowley was part of the 3rd Escort Group and was expected to act as a first line of defence around HMS Warspite, a role that carried a high risk of casualties.
He later served in the Pacific theatre and, on VJ Day in August 1945, was involved in evacuating Allied prisoners of war from remote islands and transporting them to Australia. He once described the rescued prisoners as “living skeletons,” but recalled that many were still able to smile when they realised they were free.
After the war, Mr Lamond went on to work on the railways and later lived at McKellar House in the Erskine Veterans Village in Renfrewshire.
Wing Commander Ian Cumming, chief executive of Erskine, said Mr Lamond represented “the very best of his generation,” noting that he spoke candidly about his wartime experiences to ensure people understood the true cost of war. He added that staff and residents would remember his humour, warmth and distinctive “cheeky patter.”
Marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in 2024, Mr Lamond stressed the importance of passing on wartime stories to future generations, warning that the reality and sacrifices of war must never be forgotten.
Albert Lamond will be laid to rest on Tuesday at Dalnottar Cemetery.
