Saturday 18 July 2009

R I P Henry Allingham


Henry Allingham, the World's oldest man at 113, died this morning. We were hoping to see him last week at a Buckingham Palace Garden Party to mark the Centenary of the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm which Henry joined in 1915. He was not well enough to attend but I talked to Dennis and Brenda Goodwin his greatest friends and supporters who would have brought him to the event.

They have looked after all the veterans of World War I and helped to give them the recognition they deserve, a marvellous achievement that deserves our gratitude. They will be devastated by the loss of an inspiring and gracious old gentleman and I want to send them my condolences here. I have written about Henry Allingham here
and the BBC has marked his death here with a poignant video of his life and times. You can see Dennis and Brenda at his side, accompanying him, pushing his wheelchair, making his public appearances possible.

Farewell Henry - you embodied the stoicism and sacrifice of all our servicemen and the Nation mourns your passing.

5 comments:

  1. He lived a long and noble life. I read of him at length, thanks to you, and found him absolutely grand. Surely all in Heaven are rejoicing in his arrival.

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  2. Wonderful that his reputation has spread across the Atlantic. Well, I think he's an inspiration to the world. Loved your tribute, thank you.

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  3. Thank you Townhouselady. He certainly deserves to.

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