Mr Rice was also a devoted advocate for keeping the memory of D-Day alive. Speaking at the Union Jack Club in London in 2024, he expressed his desire for young people to understand what happened on the Normandy beaches, saying the “world is dangerous at the moment” and voicing hope that the next generation might persuade politicians to steer clear of war.
In November 2025, he was received by the King and Queen, the Prince of Wales, the Duke of Edinburgh and the Duchess of Gloucester at a reception commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan.
Mr Rice was among the earliest veterans to visit the British Normandy Memorial following its completion in October 2021, returning every year thereafter with the Spirit of Normandy Trust.
As recently as June this year, he travelled to Normandy for the 82nd anniversary of D-Day. There, he spoke to GB News and shared his concern that history could be repeating itself.
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