102-year-old Walter Martin shared his wartime story as part of project to preserve the memories of Britain’s remaining WWII veterans.
Residents and staff at Ponbay Lodge care home in Hastings recently welcomed Jay Hawkins from Cambridgeshire to meet resident Walter Martin, aged 102, one of Britain’s remaining Second World War veterans and believed to be the last living glider pilot from WWII.
Jay has been on a journey across the UK to meet surviving veterans of the Second World War. His mission is to ensure their stories are never forgotten by collecting signatures on a deactivated 1939 rifle, which will eventually be displayed in a museum alongside photographs and personal accounts gathered during his travels.
Having already collected more than 100 signatures from veterans, including one aged 107, Jay was eager to meet Walter after discovering his extraordinary military history.
During their meeting, Walter shared details of his wartime service. Although he was originally due to fly Typhoon aircraft with the Royal Air Force, he was subsequently seconded to theGlider Pilot Regiment,playing a unique role during the war. Today, he is believed to be the last surviving WWII glider pilot.
Walter was delighted to be part of the project and to contribute to preserving this important chapter of history. Speaking about the visit, Walter said:
“I was very honoured Jay has taken the time to speak to WWII veterans like me and appreciated him making contact with me.”
While hearing Walter’s experiences was the highlight of the day, Jay also spent time with other residents and staff, sharing the story behind his project and allowing them to hold the historic rifle.
Zak Hampshire-Jones, the General Manager at Ponbay Lodge said,
“It was a privilege to welcome Jay to our home and to see Walter recognised in such a meaningful way. The visit inspired many conversations among residents and staff, and everyone was fascinated by Jay’s project. Preserving the stories of people like Walter is incredibly important, and we are proud to have been part of such a special day.”
You can find out more about Ponbay Lodge during the home’s weekly Tea on Tuesday event, where all are welcome from 10:30AM to enjoy refreshments and freshly baked treats with the residents. Tea on Tuesday takes place at Ponbay Lodge on The Ridge, Hastings, TN34 2AE.
For more information call 01424 533454, email [email protected] or visit the Ponbay Lodge webpage.
