Britain has lost its oldest World War Two veteran and one of the nation’s most senior citizens at the age of 109. Frank Chester passed away on April 19 at his nursing home in Malvern, Worcestershire, just nine days following his birthday celebration. Born in Ludlow, Shropshire, in April 1917, Mr. Chester served his country after working for HM Customs and Excise.
During the war, he was part of a corvette crew that escorted Arctic convoys to and from Russia, a perilous mission. Despite battling sea sickness, Mr. Chester displayed continuous bravery, earning the prestigious Distinguished Service Cross. Post-war, he settled in Walsall, where he met and married Elizabeth Proud, with whom he shared over 50 years.
After his retirement in 1987, Mr. Chester continued to serve his community, volunteering at a local food bank in Malvern and maintaining his independence even at the age of 100. He attributed his longevity to a simple habit of putting on his trousers while seated to avoid falls.