Henry Allingham, RIP
I missed this while I was in Kentucky. Glad I was able to catch it now.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/europe/07/18/oldest.vet.dead/
Henry Allingham was, until his death, the oldest man in the world. More than that, he was the last member of what was then the Royal Naval Air Service, whence the RAF was formed. He served during WWI, and had a number of battle honors.
Until very recently, Allingham was at every WWI memorial. I recall distinctly a few years ago he went to Flanders to dedicate the RAF memorial there. I believe he was the last WWI vet connected to aviation. Readers will remember that I have a strong interest in WWI aviation history.
It isn't unexpected, but still saddens me. Rest in Peace Mr. Allingham.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/europe/07/18/oldest.vet.dead/
Henry Allingham was, until his death, the oldest man in the world. More than that, he was the last member of what was then the Royal Naval Air Service, whence the RAF was formed. He served during WWI, and had a number of battle honors.
Until very recently, Allingham was at every WWI memorial. I recall distinctly a few years ago he went to Flanders to dedicate the RAF memorial there. I believe he was the last WWI vet connected to aviation. Readers will remember that I have a strong interest in WWI aviation history.
It isn't unexpected, but still saddens me. Rest in Peace Mr. Allingham.