105-Yr-Old WWII Veteran With No Family Blessed With 4,000 Birthday Cards - Happy Birthday!
By Mike-Ross
On April 21st, 2023, Ernest Horsfall completed his 105th journey around the sun, this is a very proud moment and remarkable milestone in his life. His experiences have surpassed those of many individuals, as he served as a staff sergeant with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during World War II. Throughout the war, he was stationed in North Africa and Italy, where he took charge of a team of civilian mechanics responsible for maintaining tanks. After the war's conclusion, Ernest settled down in Lancashire, England, alongside his wife and son.
Presently, Ernest resides in a nursing home situated in Preston. Although his family members have all passed away, there is no cause for concern. People from all corners of the globe rallied together to create a heartwarming celebration for Ernest's 105th birthday. It all began when the Blackpool branch of the Royal British Legion appealed to the public to send birthday cards to this esteemed veteran. The response exceeded expectations, with thousands of cards pouring in from all over the world, showcasing an outpouring of love and support for Ernest.
“We wanted to make sure Ernest’s 105th birthday was a very special occasion, because our World War Two generation should never be forgotten,” said Royal British Legion Secretary Christine Parry.
To honor Ernest’s service and contributions to freedom, caregivers presented him with more than 4,000 cards sent from all across the United Kingdom, and even overseas. He was delighted to read each one, especially the cards he received from the British Prime Minister and King Charles III!
“I am utterly amazed. I want to thank each and every person who took the time to send me a message,” said the centenarian.
When he was 43 years old, Ernest took a flying lesson and fell in love with piloting. He switched careers and became a private pilot for several decades. He only stopped when he turned 93 because insurance companies refused to offer him a policy! Nevertheless, he kept working as an aircraft inspector until he was 101 years old. Quitting just isn’t in this guy’s vocabulary.
To honor his passion for aviation, Ernest paid a visit to a local airplane hanger, where he spent time admiring a Jodel aircraft he rebuilt with his own hands “oh so many years ago.”
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