South Gloucestershire WW2 veteran Harry Francis dies aged 101

Harry Francis, one of the West of England’s last surviving World War Two veterans, has died aged 101 in South Gloucestershire. He joined the Royal Navy in 1942 at 16 after lying about his age, later moving to the Royal Marines. Francis became among the first men to join the Special Boat Service (SBS), carrying out covert operations in Italy, Lebanon and Burma, where he was wounded. South Gloucestershire Armed Forces Day posted tributes describing his “quiet bravery” and “remarkable life,” and said he was remembered by family members including his wife Gwen and descendants. He marked his centenary last year with friends and family, and was visited by Royal Marines Reserve Bristol personnel delivering a message from First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff General Sir Gwyn Jenkins. His daughter Teresa Betton told the BBC that Francis had signed the Official Secrets Act. Community memories included a neighbour recalling his Burma stories shared over tea.