Glider veteran lands at base for 100th bash
ASECOND WORLD War hero returned to the site of his forces training to be given a surprise 100th birthday party.
Peter Davies, from Bollington, flew Hamilcar Gliders during the war, most notably as part of Operation Varsity to gain a foothold across the River Rhine into Germany in March 1945.
Manchester Airport was a key training school and was the location of the first military glider trials in 1940 – the success of which led to the founding of Peter’s regiment.
He returned there last week for a service in the memorial garden and party at the Runway Visitor Park.
Peter said: “It’s an unbelievable surprise, this must have been the best kept secret going. It has been wonderful to see so many faces here to wish me a happy birthday.”
The Hamilcar Gliders were amongst the largest aircraft produced at the time and were designed to carry heavy cargo, including tanks, to deposit behind enemy lines.
Peter’s glider was hit several times and crashlanded, but remarkably he made it out.
He helped raise funds for a dedicated memorial to his regiment in Manchester Airport’s onsite memorial garden.
The Glider Pilots’ Association set up a committee, with Peter as the
treasurer, to raise funds and build the memorial – which was unveiled in 1997.
At the service there, conducted by airport chaplain George Lane, wreaths were laid for friends Peter lost during the war.
He was also given a guard of honour by other veterans and serving members of the Forces.
Among the organisers of the surprise was friend Kevin Hainey, who is himself a decorated veteran.
He said: “I have known
Peter for eight years, we meet each year in the memorial garden at the airport, at the annual service of remembrance.
“With the momentous occasion of his 100th birthday approaching, we knew we needed to do something special for him.
“To celebrate a man who put his life on the line for his country all those years ago and to ensure that we gave him the chance to honour the friends he lost, which is very important to him.”
Chris Woodroofe, the airport’s managing director, added: “It was a privilege to welcome Peter back.
“The Glider Pilot Regiment made an indelible contribution during the war and sadly, the number of people who can personally remember their sacrifices is diminishing. However, thanks to Peter’s efforts in establishing a memorial here, they will never be forgotten. I’d like to wish Peter a very happy birthday.”