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Reg SnowlingBritish tanker, hero of World War II
Date of Birth: 01.01.1921
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- The Shortest D-Day Hero
- Early Life and Military Service
- D-Day and the Normandy Campaign
- The Tank Incident
- The Sinking of German Submarines
- Liberation of Bergen-Belsen
- Post-War Life and Honors
- Legacy
The Shortest D-Day Hero
Reginald "Reg" Snowden, known as "Shorty," was a British tank sergeant who stood at just four feet eleven inches tall, earning him the title of the shortest D-Day hero. Despite his diminutive stature, he accomplished remarkable feats of valor during World War II.
Early Life and Military Service
Born in Ipswich, Suffolk, Snowden joined the British Army in 1940 at the age of 18. As a tank operator, he became a legend for destroying two German tanks with a single shell.
D-Day and the Normandy Campaign
On June 6, 1944 (D-Day), Snowden landed on Gold Beach as part of the 24th Armored Brigade. In the ensuing Normandy campaign, he was credited with taking out two German "Panther" tanks while advancing into German-occupied Europe.
The Tank Incident
In a harrowing encounter, Snowden's tank was targeted by three enemy tanks. Despite their fire, his tank reversed and engaged the attackers head-on. Snowden delivered a single shot that pierced through one tank and into the other, obliterating both.
The Sinking of German Submarines
During a brief stopover in Holland, Snowden's tank was ordered to provide cover on a country road. His crew spotted German soldiers exiting a house and heading towards camouflaged submarines. Reacting quickly, Snowden fired a single shot that sank both subs, killing the crew.
Liberation of Bergen-Belsen
On April 15, 1945, Snowden witnessed the horrors of the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, where he saw thousands of dead bodies. This experience left a profound impact on his life.
Post-War Life and Honors
After the war, Snowden returned to Ipswich and resumed his previous occupation as a clothier. He later worked in a bacon factory and drove a bread van before becoming an assistant manager at a grocery store. In 2016, he was awarded France's highest honor, the Legion of Honour.
Legacy
Reginald "Reg" Snowden passed away in Ipswich on June 30, 2018. His heroic actions during World War II continue to inspire and remind us of the bravery and resilience of those who fought for freedom.
