Scottish War Veteran, John McOwan, Passes Away at Age 103
One of Scotland’s last D-Day veterans, John McOwan, has sadly passed away at the age of 103. Formerly a sergeant in the Royal Auxiliary Ordnance Corps and later the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, McOwan breathed his last at his residence in Pebbles, located in the Borders. The veteran, who was training as an optometrist when the Second World War erupted in September 1939, actively participated in the Allied invasion landings at Salerno, Italy, in 1943, followed by landing on Gold Beach during the historic Normandy landings on June 6, 1944.
Although like many of his peers, McOwan seldom discussed his wartime experiences, during the pandemic, he took the initiative to write ‘A Centenarian’s Memoirs of WWII’ by hand for his three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Upon his return from the war in 1946, McOwan settled back in Peebles, where he, alongside his brother Kenneth, managed the family jewellery shop until its sale in 1991. In 1947, he tied the knot with Betty Reid, with whom he raised a daughter, Eleanor. After Betty’s demise in 2000, McOwan continued to immerse himself in various pursuits, including beekeeping, ballroom dancing, and fishing in the River Tweed for salmon and trout.
Not just a war hero, John was also known for his artistic talents as a skilled gardener and painter, particularly excelling in acrylics and pastels. His notable artworks, featuring local landscapes and a grand French Impressionist-style crowd scene, often found buyers in cafés or were completed on commission, with little concern for monetary gain. In recognition of his D-Day heroism, McOwan was honoured with France’s prestigious Légion d’Honneur medal last year, which he proudly displayed alongside his other accolades above his fireplace.
This year, on the occasion of the 80th D-Day commemoration on June 6, John participated in the event alongside fellow veterans and service personnel at the Peebles War Memorial. Military historian Sir Hew Strachan lauded his valor, remarking on McOwan’s pivotal role during the Normandy landings. A memorial service was conducted on Friday, December 6, to pay homage to John’s extraordinary life and enduring legacy.
In conclusion, John McOwan’s passing marks the end of an era for Scotland, as one of the dwindling number of D-Day veterans bids farewell. His contributions, both in the war and in civilian life, stand as a testament to his courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit.