Dear Jacky,
First of all, I thank you on behalf of my family for organising this day and express my appreciation for the hard work you have done to bring families together to honour the allied servicemen who gave their lives for future generations.
I remember my uncle well (Donald Brown, DFC). I am named after him and very proud that I am. I went to the same school that he did (Ealing County Grammar School). I was at his wedding in June 1943 when I was just 6 years old. I have actually held the DFC (Distinguished Flying Cross) he was awarded by the RAF for his services as Navigator.
His daughter Susan (my cousin) was born just a week after he was shot down. Sadly, the whole family has lost contact with her for many years. We have tried to find her but so far without success. We are hoping that one day we will do so.
Referring back to my uncle I can remember reading a letter he wrote to his wife Mary during the war when he was away flying. One sentence has stayed with me which I will never forget. It read “I will gladly lay down my life for the next generation”.
In the bible (John 15:13) Jesus said, “The greatest love a person can have for his friends is to give his life for them.” My uncle along with many others who served their country have done just that, and that is why we honour them and remember the sacrifice they made on our behalf.
As we gather here today to honour them my prayer is that God will be very tangible to everyone present. And as we honour them we also will honour the God who loved this world so much that He gave His only Son so that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)
God bless you Jacky and the families of those who are with you today.
Donald Redfearn