Rose of York

Saturday, 6. June 2009, 21:08

Let us pray in thanksgiving on the 113rd birthday, today, of Henry Allingham, survivor of the First World War, and last surviving founder member of the Royal Air Force.

Mister Allingham is Europe's oldest man, so this is an opportune day to pray for all old people wherever they may be.

I read today that Henry Allingham has died, aged 113

Quote:

 

Henry Allingham, the oldest surviving British serviceman from the First World War, has died at the age of 113, his care home said.
Mr Allingham served with the Royal Naval Air Service during the Great War, later transferring to the Royal Air Force and serving at Ypres.
"Everybody at St Dunstan's is saddened by Henry's loss and our sympathy goes out to his family," said Robert Leader, chief executive of St Dunstan's care home in Ovingdean, near Brighton, East Sussex.

Mr Leader said: "He was very active right up to his final days, having recently celebrated his 113th birthday on HMS President surrounded by family.
"As well as possessing a great spirit of fun, he represented the last of a generation who gave a very great deal for us.
"Henry made many friends among the residents and staff at St Dunstan's. He was a great character and will be missed."
A funeral will take place later this month at St Nicholas' Church in Brighton.
Mr Allingham had five grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, 14 great-great grandchildren and one great-great-great grandchild.
He joined the Royal Naval Air Service in September 1915 before transferring to the RAF in April 1918 and was the last survivor of the Battle of Jutland.