Harry Patch RIP

Hi all

Some folk might remember how I posted an article a couple of months ago about Harry Patch, the last surviving soldier from the trenches of the First World War. It was a remarkable article about a remarkable man. If you missed it first time around it is worth a read: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk...1-1704823.html

Sadly, Harry died last week - very literally the last of those who went through the hell of the Somme, Paschendale, and the others. Although there are a few WWI servicemen still alive, none who served in the mud of Flanders.

Harry's funeral was today. There are an article and video about the funeral at: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/new...cle6741468.ece

Rest in Peace Harry.

These hearts were woven of human joys and cares,
Washed marvellously with sorrow, swift to mirth.
The years had given them kindness. Dawn was theirs,
And sunset, and the colours of the earth.
These had seen movement, and heard music; known
Slumber and waking; loved; gone proudly friended;
Felt the quick stir of wonder; sat alone;
Touched flowers and furs and cheeks. All this is ended.

There are waters blown by changing winds to laughter
And lit by the rich skies, all day. And after,
Frost, with a gesture, stays the waves that dance
And wandering loveliness. He leaves a white
Unbroken glory, a gathered radiance,
A width, a shining peace, under the night

The Dead
Rupert Brooke


Mike

I saw a bit in the newspaper on him this morning. I will read the article you linked.

I heard a piece on NPR about him today. I can't even begin to imagine how horrible Paschendale must have been. The half a million dead and injured is about 15 times more people than the town I grew up in.

Rest in Peace Harry.

mbb

God bless you Harry! Hope we meet someday.

RIP Harry..

He was a really gentle man. When he was manning the machine guns, he would try to set them up so as to wound them, not kill.

God bless you Harry, rest in peace.