Bath war veteran Stan Ford, who survived the D-Day landings and went on to become a powerful advocate for remembrance, has died at the age of 100.
Stan Ford in Milsom Street in Bath | Photo courtesy of B&NES Council
Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, led tributes to Mr Ford, whose wartime service and work honouring fallen comrades made him a much-loved figure in the city.
Councillor Guy said: “I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Stan Ford. On behalf of Bath & North East Somerset Council, I extend heartfelt condolences to Stan’s family, friends and all who knew him.
“Stan was an extraordinary member of our community. Only last year, I was proud to join him, his family and friends to celebrate his 100th birthday, marking not just a remarkable milestone in years, but a life defined by service, resilience and dedication to remembering those who did not return from war.
“Many residents will also remember Stan with great pride when he carried the Commonwealth Baton through the streets of Bath as part of the Queen’s Baton Relay, a moment that symbolised both his personal courage and his contribution to public life.
“Stan’s service to his country, and his commitment to sharing his experiences with future generations, will not be forgotten. He will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude by our city and wider community.
“Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.”
Stan served with the Royal Navy during the Second World War and was aboard HMS Fratton when it was torpedoed off the coast of Normandy on 18th August 1944.
He suffered a fractured spine and injuries to both legs when the ship was sunk; thirty-eight crew members were rescued but 31 lost their lives.
In later life, he became an ambassador for the British Normandy Memorial and regularly returned to France to honour fallen soldiers by keeping their memory alive.
In 2022, he was appointed as an Ambassador for the Memorial.
Last year, as part of national commemorations for the 80th anniversary of VE Day, a life-size banner of Stan was created for the Standing With Giants project. Displayed at the Guildhall in Bath, it served as a striking visual tribute to his heroism.
Stan celebrated his 100th birthday last May at Keynsham Masonic Hall, surrounded by family and friends.
He was also widely recognised in 2022 when the Queen’s Baton Relay passed through Bath ahead of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games. The 97-year-old Normandy veteran was one of nine Batonbearers who carried the baton from the Royal Crescent, via the Roman Baths, to the Guildhall.
Sharing a statement on Facebook, The Spirit of Normandy Trust said: “We are deeply saddened to share the news that D-Day Veteran Stan Ford has passed away.
“Stan was a proud veteran, who was injured when his ship HMS Fratton was sunk off Normandy.
“He was a familiar and much-loved face at many Spirit of Normandy Trust events and pilgrimages, where he generously shared his wartime experiences and helped ensure the sacrifices of his generation are never forgotten.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Lorraine, Kevin, and all of Stan’s family at this difficult time. He will be remembered with great respect and gratitude.”
