Private Denis O'Connor served with the South Staffordshire Regiment before volunteering for airborne forces 19 April 1944.

Private O'Connor completed Parachute Course 116 in May 1944 and was posted to the 8th Parachute Battalion, “C” Company, 7 Platoon and saw service in Normandy, the Rhine Crossing and later in Palestine.

Denis was 'released' from the Army 2 September 1947.