RAF Hero Celebrates 103rd Birthday: Len Parry’s Extraordinary WWII Journey
RAF veteran Len Parry, one of the last surviving VJ Day heroes from Britain, marks his remarkable 103rd birthday today.
A Daring Escape from Captivity
Len Parry, a holder of the Burma Star, recounted his daring escape after being captured by Japanese ground soldiers during World War II. He and his comrades were kept captive in an air hangar for three days. However, when Churchill surrendered Singapore, the Japanese soldiers celebrated with alcohol, providing the perfect opportunity for Parry and his fellow prisoners to make their escape.
A Journey of Service and Courage
Parry spent five years serving in the Far East, with experiences in Burma, Ceylon, and India. His dedication to public service during and after the war earned him recognition, including a bottle of champagne from King Charles last year, who commended his bravery in a personal letter.
A Toast to Len’s 103rd Birthday
Today, Len Parry’s 103rd birthday will be celebrated at his care home in Yorkshire. Special guests from the Royal British Legion and Burma Star Association will join the festivities, bringing a Fortnum and Mason hamper to honor the occasion.
From School to Service
Born to a veteran of World War I’s Gallipoli campaign, Len Parry left school at 14 to become an apprentice gas engineer. Despite initial rejection from the Royal Navy, Parry’s determination led him to the RAF. He trained as a ground crew technician, deploying straight to the frontlines due to wartime needs.
Facing Challenges
Sent to Singapore in 1940, Len endured an 11-week journey aboard liners, traveling at a mere eight miles per hour due to submarine threats. He contributed to repairing aircraft and installing autopilot technology on seaplanes, all the while facing air raids and the turmoil of war.
A Bold Escape
When Churchill’s decision to surrender Singapore reached their captors, Parry and his crew seized the opportunity to escape. The guards, overwhelmed by the news, indulged in celebrations, allowing the captives to plan a dramatic getaway in an abandoned Chinese fishing junk.
Recognition and Remembrance
Len Parry’s journey, full of resilience and valor, caught the attention of Prince Charles, who reached out with a heartfelt letter and a bottle of champagne. The framed letter remains a cherished possession, honoring his outstanding service during the war.
A Life Beyond the Battlefield
After the war, Len returned to Yorkshire, married his childhood sweetheart, and raised a family. He continued to serve the RAF, even dealing with mishaps like a bungled aircraft repair under Winston Churchill’s watch.
A Century of Wisdom
At 100 years old, Len Parry became a symbol of resilience once again when his house was robbed. With the help of TV host Piers Morgan, he raised funds to share with his family. Len’s enduring spirit and journey through history stand as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of veterans everywhere.