The Royal Naval Association (RNA) is sad that WW2 veteran Alec Penstone will be in hospital over his 101st birthday and would like anyone who wants to wish him well to send a card to Alec, who helped shape our world today.
Alec is poorly in St Mary’s Hospital, Isle of Wight, and will not be able to return home for his 101st birthday on 23 April. If you would like to send a card to his hospital bed to brighten his day here’s the address:
FAO Alec Penstone
C/O 20 West Hill Road
Ryde
Isle of Wight
PO33 1LG
Alec was 15 when war broke out:
“As the Blitz started in London, I volunteered as a part time Air Raid Precautions messenger and served all the way throughout the Blitz in 1940- 41 as a messenger.
“At 15 years of age, pulling bodies out of bombed buildings you grow up very quickly.”
As soon as Alec was old enough he decided to join up:
“My mates were all going up, joining up, and I decided that I don’t want to stay there any longer. I went and joined the Royal Navy, as a HO (Hydrographic Officer) and that was the start of it.”
Alec served on HMS Campania, an escort aircraft carrier. This ship was used to sweep for mines and search for U Boats. Alec spent his time three decks down on constant action station and on-watch listening out for torpedoes, mines and U Boats.
On the same ship, Alec then went on to complete 10 Arctic Convoys and returned home a changed man.
As a nation, we owe our today to these veterans. The Royal Naval Association is honoured that Alec is one of their beloved members and, as an organisation wishes him comfort and care at this time.
Capt Bill Oliphant, RNA CEO said:
“We are so sad to hear of Alec’s illness. I had the great pleasure of celebrating his 100th birthday with him last year and noted his charisma and charm. In fact, the D Day Darlings attended his party too and Alec insisted on dancing with them to the exclusion of everyone else. He is a legend and we honour him deeply.”
