Crewe D-Day veteran, 102, receives his MBE at Windsor Castle

Crewe D-Day veteran Bernard Morgan, aged 102, has received his MBE at Windsor Castle, calling it a ‘wonderful day.’

The former RAF codebreaker, who deciphered the telegram announcing German surrender, was made a Member of the British Empire in the 2026 New Year Honours list for services to volunteering and history.

Bernard has been a highly respected volunteer at the Imperial War Museum since 2006, contributing to the learning and visitor offer at the North and London branches.

He continues to support the museum’s ‘We Were There’ activities. During World War II, he volunteered for the military and, after being grounded from flying, he became a front-line Code Breaker in the Code and Cypher unit.

On D-Day, aged 20, he was the youngest RAF sergeant to land on Gold beach, where he was tasked with manning a Bren gun.

He told One Crewe: “I was delighted to receive my MBE award at Windsor Castle from HRH Princess Anne, The Princess Royal. It was a honour to meet her again in the beautiful and iconic surroundings of the castle. A wonderful day for me and also my family, with very special memories.”

Bernard regularly shares his extraordinary D-Day and World War II memories with museum visitors, and for the 80th anniversary, he participated in a special session at Downing Street and aboard HMS Belfast.

He added: “I feel it is important that future generations remember the sacrifices of those who served and those who gave their lives for the freedom we enjoy today.”

Well done Sir.