Royal Marines Re-Enact D-Day Mission in Kayaks for 80th Anniversary

Four kayakers are embarking on a re-enactment of a critical D-Day military reconnaissance task, replicating the operations of the Combined Operations Pilotage Parties (COPP) during the Second World War.

The kayakers are joining a group of 18 former and active Royal Marines paddling across the English Channel to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day on June 6.

Maj Mike Devereux from the Commando Helicopter Force highlighted the pivotal role played by the COPP team in the planning and success of the D-Day landings.

L/Cpl Sam Edwards, representing the Royal Marines from Taunton, expressed his pride in participating in the re-enactment mission.

The COPPists were instrumental in gathering intelligence on enemy-held beaches and inshore waters for the D-Day invasion, often navigating perilously close to enemy defenses.

Maj Devereux stressed that the final decision to proceed with the landings was heavily influenced by the reconnaissance reports provided by the COPP team.

The robust Klepper kayaks, employed by the COPPists in their operations, continue to serve as reliable tools, showcasing their practicality and durability.

Despite planning to use kayaks for the re-enactment, the COPP team ultimately employed midget submarines due to challenging conditions in the English Channel in 1944.

The kayakers will commence their journey from Portsmouth on June 3, heading to Normandy for the commemorative events surrounding the D-Day anniversary.

This paddle represents a tradition within the Royal Marines, offering participants a physical challenge and an opportunity to reconnect with their comrades.

Malcolm Swarbrick and David Bruce, both affiliated with the Royal Marines, are among those partaking in this challenging expedition.

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