John William “Willy” Behrens
Service No.: O-199448
Ship Assignment: USS LST-531
ABMC Memorial Page: Click Here
USS LST-531 Commanding Officer, Lieutenant John William “Willy” Behrens, stands as one of the courageous heroes involved in Exercise Tiger — a crucial but tragic rehearsal for the Normandy landings — Behrens exemplified bravery, resilience, and dedication under harrowing circumstances. While the world remembers D-Day for its pivotal role in turning the tide of World War II, the sacrifices made during the preparations, including the lives risked during Exercise Tiger, remain less known to many. We hoper to shed light on Lieutenant Behrens’ vital contributions and honor the hidden sacrifices that paved the way for one of history’s most significant military operations. Through his story, we gain a deeper appreciation for the courage and determination of those who fought not only on the beaches of Normandy but also in the shadows of training exercises that shaped the success of D-Day.
Early Years
John was born on 31st July 1912 in Germany, the son of John W. Behrens and Alwine S. Behrens (nee Solms). The family emigrated to the United States, settling in Grand Island, Nebraska.
Military Service
John enlisted in New York whilst living in Whitestone, Flushing, NY., and his early military career saw him rise through the ranks as he participated in various training exercises and smaller operations, honing his skills in amphibious warfare and reconnaissance.
Achieving the rank of Lieutenant, by 18th April 1944, John was acting Skipper of the USS LST-531 in preparation for the large-scale rehearsals for the D-Day Normandy landings that tragically turned into one of the war’s deadliest training accidents.
On April 27, a convoy of eight LSTs (Landing Ship, Tank) loaded with their full complement of vehicles, equipment, and personnel departed southern England as part of this exercise. Early in the morning on April 28, the convoy was circling Lyme Bay when they came under attack from German E-Boats. Two of the participating ships, USS LST-507 and USS LST-531, were hit by enemy fire and sunk. The remaining members of the convoy fired back on the E-boats and drove them away. Over 600 men were lost from the two LSTs that sank.
Lieutenant Behrens was killed in the incident. His official date of death is 29th April 1945. He was originally missing in action and not declared dead for one year plus one day.
John left a wife, Mrs Natalie Dorothy Behrens.
Honours and Memorials
Lieutenant John W. Behrens was awarded a Purple Heart.
John’s name is inscribed in the American Roll of Honour book in the American Memorial Chapel Roll of Honour at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, and is commemorated on the Tablets of the Missing at the American Battle Monuments Commission Cemetery and Memorial, Normandy American Cemetery.
He is also commemorated with a memorial headstone in Grand Island Cemetery Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska, USA.
