Britain’s Oldest World War Two Veteran, 109, Participates in Remembrance Sunday Services

Thousands of individuals convened for Remembrance Sunday services throughout the East Midlands, commemorating the sacrifice of military personnel who died in service. Among those present was the United Kingdom’s most senior surviving World War Two veteran. Attendees participated in parades and ceremonies at various war memorials, observing a two-minute silence at 11:00 GMT. Donald Rose, 109 years old, observed the commemorations at the Cenotaph in Ilkeston, Derbyshire. Erewash’s deputy mayor, Harry Atkinson, placed a wreath there, while hundreds of others paid their respects in the Market Place. Mr. Rose, a great-grandfather, is recognized as a D-Day veteran who served on the front lines with the 7th Armoured Division. In Nottingham, Catherine Mason participated in a ceremony dedicated to the memory of her son, Cameron Laing, who passed away at the age of 20 during active service. “I’m here to celebrate Cameron and all the other fallen heroes as a remembrance because we do have to remember them,” she stated. She was among the hundreds who gathered for a parade that proceeded through several streets in Bulwell, concluding with a service at St Mary’s Church. The successful completion of a fundraising appeal, which reached its target in under 24 hours, ensured the event could proceed. She remarked, “Cameron died in service protecting his country, so he gave all.” “He was my baby. He was the youngest of the family and he revelled in his career.” “So it’s very important to remember, especially since Cameron actually did this march the year before he died.” In Farnsfield, Nottinghamshire, numerous participants joined a parade through the town, subsequently assembling for a service at St Michael’s Church. Additionally, a postbox was adorned with a topper depicting a knitted aeroplane, poppies, and saluting fallen soldiers, serving as a tribute to the victims of the Halifax bomber crash. In Leicester, individuals convened at the War Memorial in Victoria Park for a commemorative service. This service followed a parade that commenced from De Montfort Hall, led by the Seaforth Highlanders Pipes and Drums, alongside members of the Armed Forces, reservists, veterans, and cadets. The procession then advanced towards the Arch of Remembrance, where the service was to be held. The service was officiated by The Lord Bishop of Leicester, the Right Reverend Martyn Snow. A bugler performed the Last Post, preceding the firing of salutes that signified both the commencement and conclusion of the two-minute silence. Wreaths were placed by Colonel Murray Colville, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, and Councillor Bhupen Dave, The Lord Mayor of Leicester, in conjunction with representatives from local emergency services, military units, and faith communities. In Ripley, Derbyshire, residents honored the fallen with a parade and a service conducted at All Saints Church. The service, held in the churchyard, was led by Rev John Ferguson, and included a two-minute silence and the placement of a wreath at the memorial. Participants in the parade included members of the Royal British Legion, former service personnel, territorial and reserve forces, cadets, and emergency services. For further updates, BBC Nottingham can be followed on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding the BBC’s approach to external linking is available.