Remarkable Second World War veterans came together at HMS Excellent this July for a very special birthday celebration, recognising a lifetime of service and extraordinary contribution.
A special lunch was hosted in the Wardroom at HMS Excellent, with the event celebrating four milestone birthdays, with the veterans reaching a combined age of an incredible 404 years.
Among those being honoured are:
- Dorothy Walsh (100) – A member of the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS), Dorothy served as a codebreaker operating the Bombe Machine at the Stanmore outstation of Bletchley Park, playing a vital role in Britain’s wartime intelligence efforts.
- Ken Arkell (100) – Ken served in the Royal Navy across a variety of ships and shore establishments throughout the Second World War.
- Len Chivers (102) – Len’s naval service included time aboard several ships, and he notably survived the bombing of HMS Kipling.
- Robin Boodle (102) – Robin joined the Royal Navy at just 14 years old in 1939, later serving during the Battle of the Atlantic and in the Far East campaign.
Also in attendance to help celebrate were WW2 Veterans:
- Henry Rice (100) – Henry, a former signalman, arrived off Juno Beach five days after D-Day. He served aboard HMS Eastway, which transported men and equipment to Normandy, and was later awarded the Legion d’honneur, France’s highest order of merit.
- Sybil Parker (101) – During the war, Sybil served in the Wrens and was stationed in the Southwick Tunnels, a key operational centre for Allied naval activities.
This brought the combined age of the Veterans in attendance to 605 years between 6 of them.
We were also due to welcome Jean Taylor (102), to celebrate her 102nd Birthday, however she was unable to make it on the day. Jean served with the WRNS as an Officer’s Steward at HMS Shrapnel in Southampton, Jean’s wartime service also connects with the remarkable story of Operation PLUTO, one of the most ambitious engineering achievements of the war. We at RNRMC wish Jean a very Happy Birthday and hope to see her again soon.
The celebration not only marked these extraordinary birthdays but also recognised the lasting legacy of a generation whose service helped shape history. Their individual stories reflected courage, determination and commitment in the face of immense challenges, and together they represented an important living link to the Second World War.
The event gathered serving personnel and veterans in a fitting tribute to those who served. The centenarians were also recognised with commemorative letters from the First Sea Lord, adding a special touch to an already memorable occasion. Robin Boodle was also presented with a special beret with a handsewn ‘Arctic Convoy’ badge kindly donated by Tin Trousers.
Special thanks goes out to Southwick Revival WW2 Veterans Club, who bring veterans together once a month, and their volunteers that helped get the veterans to the event. And thank you to ESS services for providing the birthday cake and desert for the celebrations.
Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity alongside Greenwich Hospital were proud to support the celebration, helping to bring veterans together, honour their service, preserve their stories and ensure their legacy continues to inspire future generations.
