Celebrating a century RAF guests pay a special visit for Eileen’s birthday
STATIONED at RAF Ouston and RAF Acklington during the Second World War, an RAF veteran from Cirencester has celebrated her 100th birthday.
Eileen Mary Blythe celebrated the milestone on Tuesday November 8 at Barchester-hunters Care Centre with a special visit by Flying Officers Eve and Ian Westlake from RAF Brize Norton and her family, including her grandsons Warrant Officer Chris Blythe and Flight Sergeant Martin Blythe.
Receiving a card on behalf of the Station Commander, Group Captain Claire O’grady, Commander Air Wing and Group Captain Gareth Burdett also wished her a happy birthday with messages from the Aviators and Officers of RAF Brize Norton.
Grandson Chris Blythe said: “A huge thanks to RAF Brize Norton and Flying Officer Westlake for attending my grandmothers birthday.
“It meant a lot to us all that the station took the time to visit her today.
“Our family connection with the RAF obviously goes a long way back and it was great to see my grandmother enjoying Flying Officer Westlake’s company while discussing life in the RAF today”.
Celebrating Eileen’s 100th birthday has also given her family the chance to tell their story of service in the air force.
Eileen’s other grandson Martin Blythe said: “My grandmother’s first fiancee, a pilot, was killed in action during her time serving but she eventually met my grandfather, another pilot, and married towards the end of the War. He served a total of 36 years, retiring in 1977.
“My brother has served for 35 years and I have served for 27 years so with my grandmother’s service we have currently provided 100 years service to the RAF.”