Rawmarsh and Conisbrough MP and Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, recently called in to wish Fred Adamson a happy 105th birthday.
Fred is a Conisbrough veteran who served from 1940 to 1946 and is the oldest surviving member of the Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry 1st/4th Battalion, 49th Infantry Division, known as The Polar Bears.
His service included time in Iceland from 1940 to 1942, and from June 1944, he bravely fought through Normandy and across North West Europe during World War Two.
John Healey MP said: “What an incredible honour it was to celebrate the 105th birthday of Conisbrough veteran Fred Adamson.
“He spoke with me about how his cigarette cases saved his life. They were hit with shrapnel when they were in his breast pocket during fighting in Belgium in 1944.
“Fred has led a remarkable life and serves as an inspiration to others. Thank you, Fred, for your extraordinary service and dedication to our country.”
After VE Day, Fred continued his service in Germany, Italy, and Austria.
In recognition of his contributions to the liberation of France, he was awarded the French Legion of Honour in 2016, France’s highest accolade.
You can see more in the video below.