Military send-off for WWI veteran

Jul 30 2009

First World War veteran Henry Allingham was described as "an ordinary man but an extraordinary human being" as hundreds turned out to mark his funeral service.

A full military service was held for Mr Allingham, the world's oldest man.

He died in his sleep aged 113 on July 18 at St Dunstan's care home for blind ex-service personnel in Ovingdean, near Brighton, East Sussex.

Many of his relatives travelled from the United States to join royal, political and military dignitaries to honour Mr Allingham, the last founder member of the RAF and the final survivor of the Battle of Jutland.

Inside the packed 14th Century St Nicholas Church in Brighton mourners heard he "blew the dust off the history books" and enriched many people's lives.

Air Vice Marshal Peter Dye said: "Henry will be remembered, not just for what he represented as one of the last World War One veterans, but for who he was. An ordinary man but an extraordinary human being. It was a pleasure to know Henry but a privilege to call him my friend."

Vice Admiral Sir Adrian Johns said: "Henry blew the dust off the history books for us, gave us an insight into our heritage and reminded us of our roots and those who have gone before us."

He said many would remember Mr Allingham's humility, humour, integrity and the fighting spirit he embodied.

Mr Allingham's grandson, David Gray, shared precious childhood memories of his grandfather with the congregation.

He recalled the moment he saw his 93-year-old grandfather arrive at Miami airport pushing a younger member of airline staff in his wheelchair. He said: "That was classic Henry, always a twinkle in his eye and always ready to pull your leg."