Mr Cyril Banks Cause Of Death, Obituary Not Yet Available – We learned with great regret that Mr Cyril Banks, a D-Day veteran, friend, and wonderful fundraiser for the Not Forgotten, has died. Cyril will be well-known among veterans, as he always has a smile on his face and a story to share. He was a huge hit with everyone, especially when he came to our events.
According to The Not Forgotten, Cyril joined the Royal Navy at the age of 18 in 1943, joining the minesweeper HMS Ready. His initial months at sea were spent patrolling the North Sea for German U-Boats and in cold Arctic convoys.
The HMS Ready was then sent to the English Channel to assist with minesweeping operations running up to the D-Day landings. HMS Ready led the mine-clearing flotilla off Gold Beach on D-Day. It was a physically and mentally exhausting endeavor to be constantly threatened by coastal guns or German planes.
Later, Cyril served on LST (Landing Ship, Tank) ships in the English Channel before traveling to the Far East, where he participated in anti-Japanese operations and assisted in the repatriation of Australian POWs.
We all adored Cyril, and he will be sorely missed. At this difficult time, our thoughts and condolences are with his family.
