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RIP Henry Allingham
Henry Allingham, the world’s oldest man, RNAS vet, survivor of the Battle of Jutland and last surviving founder member of the RAF, has died aged 113 at his care home in Brighton. He remained alert and proud of his WW1 role in his later years, speaking to schools and youth everywhere of his experiences. He was highly regarded by the Fleet Air Arm and, until recently, gave newly qualified helicopter pilots their wings.
At the Remembrance Day Service last November, he was escorted in his wheelchair to the steps of the Cenotaph and attempted to rise as a show of respect, surprising those who were aware of his state of health. This is the gesture that I will think of each time his name comes up.
On the subject of his fame and the reverence with which his position was treated, he replied ‘I don’t deserve it. The one’s who didn’t come back deserve our respect, not me.’
This irreplaceable man will be missed.
Bruce
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