Remembering Hadleigh D-Day veteran Harry Hughes, 98

In the days after his death, it has been said that Harry Hughes was “simply the best”.

A devoted husband and father, a formidable goalie for Hadleigh United, and a dab hand at darts in The George in the high street, Harry was known for his kind, friendly nature.

However, we are remembering him today as a hero who left his hometown 80 years ago, prepared lay down his life so that others could know freedom.

Harry was, said one friend, 'simply the best'. (Image: Mark Brennan) When Harry arrived in the world, in December of 1925, he was initially known as ‘Raven’, for his thick mop of dark hair.

When Harry was a child, his family moved to Hadleigh from Capel St Mary, where he and his siblings attended Bridge Street School.

The Second World War was declared in 1939, and soon Harry’s elder brothers were called to serve, with Jimmy and Ronnie entering the army, and Charlie the RAF.

In 1943, it was Harry’s turn. Called up immediately after his 18th birthday, Harry was drafted into the Suffolk Regiment.  

In 1943, Harry was called to serve shortly after his 18th birthday. (Image: Mark Brennan) Harry was one of hundreds of thousands of men who bravely served during D-Day. (Image: Mark Brennan) Harry fought through France, Belgium and Holland before being deployed to Palestine. (Image: Mark Brennan) On June 6, 1944, D-Day arrived, with the Allies launching the largest amphibious invasion in the history of warfare, bringing together forces of the land, sea and air.

Harry’s parent regiment, the 1st Battalion of the Suffolk Regiment, landed at Sword Beach where they were tasked with capturing a bunker system. They did so, but only after losing two of their officers and five of their men.

When the Suffolks moved inland, replacements were needed, and Harry soon received his movement orders.

In 2015, Harry was recognised for his wartime service by the French president, François Hollande, made him a Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour).

Speaking to the EADT, Harry remembered arriving in France and being told to report to a more senior soldier.

“I didn’t know it was a sergeant major,” he said. “He said ‘Take that kit off for a start’. I said ‘Who the hell are you giving orders out?’

“He said ‘Look, I’m a sergeant major, do you want me to give you an order?’

“He said ‘Go over there and you’ll find a sergeant – but run from here to there.’ I just toddled along, the next thing I know a shot hit the ground in front of me.”

In 2015 Harry Hughes was made a Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour). (Image: Mark Brennan) Harry remained proud to have served his country. (Image: Mark Brennan) Harry was regarded as a local legend in Hadleigh. (Image: Mark Brennan) As a member of D Company, Harry fought through France, Belgium, Holland and into Germany right up to VE Day, by which time the battalion had lost 215 men.

He was then deployed to Palestine to support the police, who were struggling to control the rising tensions between the Arab and Israeli militias.

Harry finally returned to his beloved Hadleigh in 1947. There, he married June, and the couple welcomed three daughters, Linda, Mandy and Gaye.

He would remain at the family home in Guthrum Road for the rest of his life.

Harry loved football, and went on to become the first team goalkeeper at Hadleigh United Football Club for many years. He also became a regular on the pub darts scene, where he made plenty of friends. 

In fact, the snug at The George became known as ‘Harry’s corner’, for he could often be found there nursing a glass of Manns beer with a friendly smile for everyone who passed by.

Harry Hughes, pictured in his immaculate garden. (Image: Mark Brennan) Harry was also a great dog-lover. (Image: Mark Brennan) At Harry's funeral, servicemen past and present were there to pay their respects. (Image: Mark Brennan) Even in his 80s, he enjoyed walking the dogs, or tending his immaculate garden.

Harry died on October 16, aged 98. His funeral was held on Monday at Hadleigh Baptist Church, with servicemen past and present turning out to pay their respects.

Mark Brennan is chair of the Hadleigh branch of the Royal British Legion. 

“Harry made friends wherever he went, and it is no exaggeration to say that he was universally loved by all who knew him,” Mr Brennan said. “One recent comment made following the announcement of his passings said of Harry that he was ‘simply the best’. 

“If towns have national treasures, then Harry was ours and he will be sorely missed.”