MADAM - Colonel David J Wood, MBE, Legion d Honneur, was the last surviving officer who took part in the Benouville Bridge, know as Pegasus Bridge, Normandy operation, hours before the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, has died aged 85.

MADAM - Colonel David J Wood, MBE, Legion d'Honneur, was the last surviving officer who took part in the Benouville Bridge, know as Pegasus Bridge, Normandy operation, hours before the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, has died aged 85.

He was, at that time, a 21 year old Lieutenant, commissioned into the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, which became part of the British 6th Airborne Division.

The operation was led by Major John Howardson, DSO. Six Horsa gliders took part.

David's was the second glider to land, very close to the bridges, and both were secured in 10 minutes. Two men were killed and 14 wounded. David was one of the wounded.

David leaves a widow, Alice, and brother Peter and family, by whom he will be missed.

When the Exeter Branch of the Normandy Veterans was formed, Colonel David Wood took on the post of President.

He will be sorely missed by all, especially at out monthly Branch meetings.

Norman Grant

3 Englands Close

Sidford