One of the last surviving Dunkirk fighters who spent five years as a prisoner of war has celebrated his 104th birthday. Major John Errington fought at the battle of Le Paradis in Northern France in May 1940.
He is the oldest living 'Royal Scot' and thought to be the last surviving regular officer commissioned before the start of World War Two. The 1st Battalion The Royal Scots’ played a pivotal role in enabling the withdrawal of 337,000 Allied Forces from the beaches of Dunkirk.
But the three-day defence eventually led to the Battalion’s destruction and Major Errington was captured. The veteran, from Shrewsbury, Shropshire, spent five years as a prisoner of war.
Major Errington will celebrate his 104th birthday toady (Friday) with family and was praised for his ‘loyal’ efforts during the war. Brigadier George Lowder MBE, Chair of The Royal Scots Regimental Trust, said: "John Errington has been a very loyal member of our regiment and has shown exemplary service, especially during the second world war.
“On behalf of the regiment, we send our warmest congratulations on this special birthday, his 104th.”
