Donald Rose, Britain’s oldest Second World War veteran, has passed away at the age of 110, with his death confirmed by Erewash Borough Council on July 11, 2025.

Born on December 24, 1914, Rose served in North Africa, Italy, and France, and participated in the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, playing a role in liberating Bergen-Belsen concentration camp.

He reflected on his wartime experiences, including his time at Belsen, and noted he did not celebrate the end of the war while serving in Germany, but he expressed pride in remembering the day at 110 years old.

He attended a VE Day anniversary tea party hosted by the Royal British Legion at the National Memorial Arboretum in May 2025, alongside 45 other veterans.

Rose was awarded the freedom of the borough by Erewash in May 2025 for his bravery, and he modestly stated he had done nothing extraordinary, feeling others deserved recognition.

Erewash Borough Council honored his passing by flying flags at half-mast and acknowledged his contributions as a war hero, with council leader James Dawson expressing condolences.

Mr. Rose served with distinction, earning medals including France’s Legion d’Honneur, and was originally from Westcott, Surrey.

He was remembered as a 'war hero' and was celebrated for his service, with the council recognizing his contributions and his status as possibly the oldest man in Britain.

Rose reflected on feeling a sense of relief when the war ended and expressed gratitude for being able to remember that day at his advanced age.