A veteran who turned 103 last week has been asked to lead a VJ Day commemoration later this month.
Charles Giles celebrated his latest birthday with a special birthday brunch at the Glenholme Residential Home in Spalding where he lives.
Among those in attendance were the Spalding branch of the Royal Naval Association.
Members have asked Charles to be a guest of honour at their event at 10.45am on Friday, August 15. The branch’s Rodney Grocock said: “His story is not only inspirational but a proud part of our naval history.
“Charles served aboard HMS Bleasdale and was involved in Operation Zipper off the coast of Malaya in August 1945.
“He was present at the Japanese surrender ceremony at Port Swettenham, Malaya. Following this, HMS Bleasdale visited Ceylon and several Indian ports before being paid off into reserve at Chatham in November of that same year.”
* A flag raising ceremony will also take place at South Holland District Council at 10am on VJ Day.
A full parade to mark the 80th anniversary will take place on Sunday, August 17. Those looking to take part should muster at Ayscoughfee ahead of 1.30pm with a service at St Mary and St Nicolas Church to follow at 2pm.
