Four remarkable Second World War veterans have joined members of the Royal Naval Association (RNA) at the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday, helping ensure that the service and sacrifice of their generation remains at the heart of the nation’s commemorations.
Betty Withers, Bill Jones, Ronald Cunningham and Donald McAngus proudly represented the Royal Navy family during the National Service of Remembrance in Whitehall. Together, they reflect the courage, resilience and commitment of a generation that served during one of the most challenging periods in modern history.
Betty Withers, who served in the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS) during the Second World War. Like thousands of Wrens who stepped forward to support the war effort, her service helped ensure the Royal Navy could continue operations around the globe at a critical moment in Britain’s history.
She was joined by Bill Jones, a Normandy veteran whose service contributed to one of the most significant military operations of the war. His participation in the D-Day campaign helped pave the way for the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation.
Also taking part was Ronald Cunningham, now aged 102, who served in the Royal Navy during the Second World War and has remained a proud member of the naval family ever since. His wartime service formed part of the vast maritime effort that protected vital supply lines and supported Allied operations across the globe.
Alongside him was Donald McAngus, who served aboard Motor Torpedo Boat 655 (MTB 655). During the war, these fast and highly manoeuvrable vessels undertook dangerous operations in enemy waters. Donald’s wartime experience included surviving the loss of MTB 655 when it struck a mine while on operations in 1945.
As they took their place alongside fellow members of the Royal Naval Association, the four veterans servee as a powerful reminder of the Royal Navy’s contribution during the Second World War and the importance of preserving the memories and experiences of those who served.
Commodore Mark Slawson, National Vice President of the Royal Naval Association, said:
“It is a tremendous honour to have Betty, Bill, Ronald and Donald representing the Royal Navy family at this year’s National Service of Remembrance. Each of them has a unique story of service and sacrifice, from supporting naval operations during the Second World War to taking part in the liberation of Europe and serving in dangerous waters at sea. Their presence at the Cenotaph is a powerful reminder of the courage, resilience and dedication of their generation. We are proud to stand alongside them as we remember all those who served and those who gave their lives in service of our country.”
The Royal Naval Association encourages people across the country to take a moment during Remembrance to remember all those who served, those who continue to serve, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation.
We Will Remember Them
