A Grimsby bridge played a crucial role in the D-Day landings in Normandy 80 years ago to liberate Europe from the Nazis. As preparations continue for the 80th anniversary of the biggest seaborne invasion in military history, it has been revealed Grimsby's Corporation Bridge was used as a rehearsal for the capture of a vital bridge in France ahead of the full-scale invasion on June 6, 1944. It became known as Pegasus Bridge over the Caen Canal.
It had to be secured from the German military prior to the invasion beginning in order to prevent a German counter attack. READ MORE: Corporation Bridge footpath closure dates announced throughout June Armed Forces Day flag-raising ceremony in Scunthorpe to begin D-Day 80th anniversary commemorations Corporation Bridge is broadly similar in design and structure to the Orne Bridge in Normandy. The raid on June 5, 1944, was led by Major John Howard, who was played in the film The Longest Day by Richard Todd, who also starred in The Dambusters.
He served in the Armed Forces and later retired to Lincolnshire. Corporation Bridge remains closed for repairs and is shrouded while maintenance continues. However, over 80 years ago it was shrouded in secrecy for the paratroopers to prepare for their mission in Normandy on D-Day minus one.
Grimsby former serviceman, Michael Gibbons, a Lance Corporal with The Queen's Dragoon Guards, is taking part in a re-enactment of the invasion by jumping from a plane in Second World War uniform. He will be in a .
