VIDEO: A real Marine’s send-off in Littlehampton

“ONCE a Marine, always a Marine” – these were the words used to describe one courageous veteran soldier during his funeral in Littlehampton.
By The Newsroom
Published 1st Jan 2014, 12:00 GMT
Royal Marines pictured during the funeral of Harold Kelly, in LittlehamptonRoyal Marines pictured during the funeral of Harold Kelly, in Littlehampton
Royal Marines pictured during the funeral of Harold Kelly, in Littlehampton

Harold Kelly, one of the last serving members of the secretive 30 Assault Unit (AU), which was based in the town during the Second World War, died in November.

And last Monday (December 23) he was given military honours at his funeral service, in St Mary’s Church, in Church Street, with eight Royal Marines from 30 Commando providing a ceremonial guard of honour.

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Dozens of mourners from across the country braved blustery conditions to witness Mr Kelly’s send-off, with guests including Littlehampton mayor Joyce Bowyer, local councillors, the deputy Lord-Lieutenant of West Sussex, the High Sheriff of West Sussex and the last surviving member of 30 AU, Bill Thomas, of East Street, Littlehampton.

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Royal Marines pictured during the funeral of Harold Kelly, in LittlehamptonRoyal Marines pictured during the funeral of Harold Kelly, in Littlehampton
Royal Marines pictured during the funeral of Harold Kelly, in Littlehampton

During the service, led by Father Roger Caswell, Mr Kelly’s son Simon described how his father loved to travel and enjoyed the simple pleasure of being able to drive in his car – even at the ripe old age of 88.

For the full story, see this week’s Littlehampton Gazette, out Thursday, January 2.