British veteran left devastated after losing medals in France on D Day - 'I feel naked without them'
The RAF veteran was seen at Southwick House for D-Day commemorations before losing his medals
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An RAF veteran who tragically lost his well-earned medals has described his dismay at seeing "everyone else marching" at D-Day events while he looked on without them.
Tom Weatherall, 90, is thought to have lost the gongs at a church service in the French village of Ranville as people marked the 80th anniversary of the allies' historic Normandy landings in the Second World War.
The ex-airman had been called up for national service in 1953 - and later that year, had been invited to serve as an RAF right marker during the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
Having been part of the air force for more than 30 years, Weatherall had received a host of commemorative medals in reward for his dedicated service.
The RAF veteran was seen at Southwick House for D-Day commemorations before losing his medals
Getty
On June 3, he had been pictured at Southwick House near Portsmouth, the nerve centre of D-Day operations 80 years ago, during a gathering of World War II veterans - sporting his extensive collection of medals.
But with the silverware now missing, the 90-year-old has asked the public for help.
He told LBC: "I'm just upset. Everyone else is marching with their medals... I feel naked without them.
"If anyone can help, I'd be really grateful."
MORE ON D-DAY AND OUR VETERANS:
Weatherall pictured with guardsmen in 2017
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Weatherall has opened up about his extraordinary service before in an interview with the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, which is known for driving veterans to far-flung commemorative events like D-Day celebrations in France.
The 90-year-old veteran said: "70 years ago, I was in the RAF - and as I was only young, I was the perfect age for parades.
"As an ex-pit lad, it was a real privilege to be part of the Coronation Squad.
"On the day, I was outside Westminster Abbey, and we saluted and presented arms as the Queen got out of her carriage.
"As soon as the Queen was inside, we marched off and enjoyed the party atmosphere with a few pints in the Elephant and Castle."
And last year, ahead of King Charles's coronation, he said he wanted to help out again, saying: "I'd like to get a coronation medal. I’d love to have a coronation medal.
"This is 70 years ago. I’d like having one from the King to make a pair."
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