Latest news with #PoW
Cision Canada
22-05-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
BTQ Technologies Signs MOU with Quandela to Advance Quantum Proof-of-Work Protocols
BTQ and Quandela MOU: BTQ Technologies and Quandela have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly explore how photonic quantum computing can advance energy-efficient blockchain validation through BTQ's Quantum Sampling Proof-of-Work (QSPoW) protocol. Future Proofing Bitcoin: QSPoW is a Bitcoin-inspired quantum-secure and energy-efficient alternative to traditional PoW mining, aimed at preserving the integrity of the world's largest digital asset in the face of advancing quantum threats. Quantum Meets Blockchain: The collaboration focuses on leveraging Quandela's real and simulated boson-sampling data to test QSPoW's performance, with the goal of reducing the computational and energy demands of traditional Proof-of-Work systems. Path to Commercialization: If performance benchmarks are met, the companies will explore commercialization opportunities, including the potential integration of Quandela's Belenos quantum processor into future quantum-secure blockchain systems. VANCOUVER, BC, May 22, 2025 /CNW/ - BTQ Technologies Corp. (the "Company") (CBOE CA: BTQ) (FSE: NG3) (OTCQX: BTQQF), a global quantum technology company focused on securing mission-critical networks, is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Quandela SAS ("Quandela"), a pioneering French quantum computing company renowned for its NISQ-era photonic quantum computing platform. This collaboration marks a strategic step forward in evaluating how emerging quantum technologies can enhance blockchain systems. The partnership will center on BTQ's Quantum Sampling Proof-of-Work (QSPoW) protocol—a novel approach to blockchain validation that aims to significantly reduce energy usage while strengthening cryptographic security. Under the MOU, BTQ and Quandela will jointly explore several strategic areas. These include investigating real-world use cases for Quandela's photonic quantum computing platform, working together on the use of Quandela's boson-sampling technology—both simulated and real—through its Perceval cloud platform, and analyzing how this data performs in BTQ's Quantum Sampling Proof-of-Work (QSPoW) testnet. Based on the outcomes of this analysis, the two companies will also evaluate potential pathways for commercialization. Proof-of-Work (PoW) systems—like those used by Bitcoin—rely on massive computing power to validate transactions. BTQ's QSPoW replaces this with boson sampling, a quantum process where light particles (photons) pass through an optical network to generate hard-to-predict outcomes. These outcomes can serve as a quantum secure and energy-efficient alternative to traditional PoW, and because this problem is hard to solve on non-quantum computers, the protocol is resistant to power hungry ASIC devices. QSPoW also creates a path towards creating a quantum-safe store of value by incorporating properties of quantum mechanics into the PoW consensus algorithm, ensuring no quantum adversary will be able to control the network. This approach directly addresses the growing threat quantum technologies pose to digital assets like Bitcoin, a concern recently highlighted in BlackRock's amendment to its risk disclosure in its S-1 filing. While various actors in the Bitcoin community are taking steps to enable the uses of cryptographic algorithms that would be resistant to advanced quantum computers, there is no guarantee that new quantum-proof architectures will be built and appropriate transitions will be implemented across the network at scale in a timely manner; any such changes could require the achievement of broad consensus within the Bitcoin network community and a fork (or multiple forks), and there can be no assurance that such consensus would be achieved or the changes implemented successfully." - BlackRock, Inc. (2025). S-1 Registration Statement: iShares® Bitcoin Trust ETF. As quantum computers become more powerful, the security of Bitcoin comes under increasing threat. Today, Bitcoin relies on traditional cryptographic frameworks and Proof-of-Work to keep the network secure—approaches that future quantum machines may be able to break. BTQ's Quantum Sampling Proof-of-Work (QSPoW) is being developed as a next-generation solution that could help protect Bitcoin from these emerging risks, while also using far less energy than current mining methods. As part of the collaboration, Quandela will deliver datasets tailored to BTQ's technical requirements, which will include both simulated quantum data and experimental results where feasible. BTQ will use this data to conduct tests on its QSPoW testnet and will share its performance analysis with Quandela. Together, the two companies will also explore techniques to reduce errors in quantum processes and will assess how Quandela's Belenos quantum processor could be integrated into future versions of the QSPoW protocol. "This MOU reflects our shared ambition to advance real-world applications for quantum hardware and software," said Olivier Roussy Newton, CEO of BTQ Technologies. "We're excited to work with Quandela to rigorously test our QSPoW protocol and set the foundation for a new generation of blockchain security." Niccolo Somaschi, CEO of Quandela, added: "Partnering with BTQ highlights the versatility and promise of our photonic quantum platform. This collaboration is a great opportunity to demonstrate how quantum technologies can be used for emerging cryptographic protocols." The MOU outlines a framework for ongoing cooperation, information sharing, and public announcements of any meaningful scientific or commercial outcomes. About Quandela Founded in 2017, Quandela is a world leader in full-stack photonic quantum computing developing and commercializing quantum computers and software solutions. The quantum computing systems integrate a dedicated software stack to connect to high-performance computing centres and cloud platforms, to access a range of industrial applications, including energy, cybersecurity, and finance, showcasing the versatility of our unique technology. Featuring a modular, scalable, upgradeable, and energy efficient architecture, Quandela's mission is to deliver the first useful quantum computer to drive the quantum transformation to industry and society. For more information please visit About BTQ BTQ was founded by a group of post-quantum cryptographers with an interest in addressing the urgent security threat posed by large-scale universal quantum computers. With the support of leading research institutes and universities, BTQ is combining software and hardware to safeguard critical networks using unique post-quantum services and solutions. Connect with BTQ: Website | LinkedIn ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Olivier Roussy Newton CEO, Chairman Neither Cboe Canada nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward Looking Information Certain statements herein contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements or information include but are not limited to statements or information with respect to the business plans of the Company, including with respect to its research partnerships, and anticipated markets in which the Company may be listing its common shares. Forward-looking statements or information often can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan" or "may" and the variations of these words are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. The Company has made numerous assumptions including among other things, assumptions about general business and economic conditions, the development of post-quantum algorithms and quantum vulnerabilities, and the quantum computing industry generally. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive. Although management of the Company believes that the assumptions made and the expectations represented by such statements or information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements or information herein will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking statements and information are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks which may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results, expressed or implied, by such forward-looking statements or information. These factors include risks relating to: the availability of financing for the Company; business and economic conditions in the post-quantum and encryption computing industries generally; the speculative nature of the Company's research and development programs; the supply and demand for labour and technological post-quantum and encryption technology; unanticipated events related to regulatory and licensing matters and environmental matters; changes in general economic conditions or conditions in the financial markets; changes in laws (including regulations respecting blockchains); risks related to the direct and indirect impact of COVID-19 including, but not limited to, its impact on general economic conditions, the ability to obtain financing as required, and causing potential delays to research and development activities; and other risk factors as detailed from time to time. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
Business Standard
07-05-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Zuxtra Blockchain Launches India's First Level-1 Permissioned Blockchain with Groundbreaking 'Proof of Business' Consensus Mechanism
SMPL Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], May 7: Zuxtra Network, a pioneering deep-tech startup based in Kolkata, has officially launched the Zuxtra Blockchain, India's first Level-1 permissioned blockchain platform, powered by a revolutionary consensus model -- Proof of Business (PoB). This innovation marks a transformative evolution in blockchain infrastructure, moving beyond traditional energy-intensive models like Proof of Work (PoW) and speculative financial mechanisms like Proof of Stake (PoS). Instead, Zuxtra's proprietary Proof of Business protocol ties consensus to verifiable business performance, leveraging AI-driven auditing to autonomously validate Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). "Proof of Business consensus shifts the foundation of blockchain from unsustainable computational power or speculative financial holdings to tangible business performance and operational integrity," said Pallab Dasgupta, Founder & Chief Engineer of Zuxtra Network. "By anchoring consensus to real-world KPIs, we're creating a stable, sustainable platform for the future of blockchain technology." Addressing the Cost Barrier for Indian Enterprises India's blockchain adoption has long been hindered by a lack of indigenous infrastructure and steep development costs--often ranging between $50,000 and $300,000. This cost barrier has stifled innovation in critical sectors such as agriculture supply chains, GI-tagged product authentication, pharmaceutical counterfeit prevention, and real estate tokenization Zuxtra Blockchain aims to eliminate these hurdles. As a permissioned network, it incentivizes authorized partners to secure transactional data using PoB protocol--bypassing high gas fees while ensuring full transparency through a public ledger hosted at A Game-Changer for Indian Startups Arjun Dutta, Founder and Product Architect at IQPonics Technologies Pvt. Ltd.--an STPI Bangalore EA, Govt. of India, and Indian Statistical Institute-incubated startup--praised the platform: "We were previously limited by the high costs of building blockchain-based supply chain solutions. With Zuxtra Blockchain, we deployed our agriculture traceability platform at a fraction of the cost and with zero gas fees. It's a game-changer in the world of blockchain." Built in India, for Indian Enterprises With this launch, Zuxtra Network delivers a cost-effective, business-integrated blockchain solution designed to empower MSMEs and startups across India. The company is actively seeking $1 million in funding to expand its decentralized cloud infrastructure and scale operations. "Our vision is to build India-made, India-centric technology that empowers domestic businesses," added Dasgupta. "With the Government of India's renewed focus on deep-tech innovation, we are optimistic about achieving our goals."
Press and Journal
01-05-2025
- General
- Press and Journal
Revealed: Plans for VE Day commemorations in Aberdeen, Keith and Huntly next week
Aberdeen and the north-east celebrated victory in Europe in 1945 with a series of street parties, church services, sports events and children's galas. Cities, towns and little villages held their own festivities and have continued to pay their respects on VE Day on May 8 for the last 80 years. But now, there's almost nobody left of the military personnel who fought for freedom across the globe, including in Europe and further afield in the Far East, where the hostilities continued until August and VJ Day. It's why the 80th anniversary commemorations will be so poignant — they will likely be the final official events to honour those who fell in battle that the dead's few surviving comrades will be able to attend. More than 2,400 Gordon Highlanders perished in the conflict, while thousands of other soldiers were injured or spent years incarcerated in PoW camps. And next week, their sacrifice will be remembered during a series of special services in Aberdeen, Huntly and Keith. Major Grenville Irvine-Fortescue MBE, the chairman of the Gordon Highlanders Association, has outlined details of the events taking place across the north east. He will be running the service at the Castlegate in Aberdeen which begins at 10.30am. It will be attended by the Gordon Highlanders Association Drums and Pipes and The Lord Lieutenant for Aberdeen City, David Cameron, will lay a wreath at the site. The Royal British Legion will be represented by the chairman of the Aberdeen Branch, George Reid, and The Burgesses of Guild of the City of Aberdeen will be represented by The Lord Dean of Guild, Sylvia Halkerston. And it's hoped that Jim Glennie, 99, the last surviving Gordon Highlander from the conflict, who was involved in the D-Day landings in Normandy, will be at the ceremony. The commemoration in Keith will also begin at 10.30am at the Gordon Highlander Memorial and will include a piper and local clergy, along with attendance by the Vice Lord Lieutenant for Banffshire, Brigadier The Hon Hugh Monro CBE DL. The Huntly service will begin at midday at the Huntly War Memorial and will include a piper and local clergy and The Lord Lieutenant for Aberdeenshire, Sandy Manson. He will be joined by the Provost of Aberdeenshire, Cllr Judy Whyte and the Deputy Provost and Armed Forces Champion for Aberdeenshire, Cllr Ron McKail. Maj Irvine-Fortescue said: 'I want to encourage maximum attendance by Gordon Highlander veterans and their families from Aberdeen and across the counties of Moray, Banffshire, Aberdeenshire and Kincardineshire. 'Whilst the services will be Gordon Highlander 'focused', we welcome veterans from other regiments and those who had fathers and grandfathers who fought [in the Second World War] along veterans of the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force. 'Everybody is most welcome to join any of these services.' It might be a very different world from that of 1945 and, with hostilities currently raging in Ukraine and the Middle East, troops and civilians, including women and children, are still dying in war-ravaged parts of the globe. Yet Maj Irvine-Fortescue believes there plenty of reasons why people should pause for a few moments on May 8 and pay homage to those who saved the world from Nazism. He said: 'We are commemorating and remembering the hundreds of thousands who made the ultimate sacrifice during the six years of war. 'And not just the sailors, soldiers and airmen, but so many others from all walks of life – without whose sacrifice we would very probably not be here today. 'That sacrifice allowed us to largely live in peace for the last 80 years. Despite all the ups and downs, that is a remarkable achievement and it shows what amazing resilience the British people have to adapt and meet challenges from wherever they may come. 'The grandchildren and great grandchildren of so many from the north-east need to be reminded what their forebears did and achieved and should take great pride in that. 'Those who were not a part of those terrible times can have no inkling of the horrors of war. We are very fortunate to have one or two very special Second World War veterans still with us. It is our privilege to honour and thank them on this 80th anniversary. 'So let us also celebrate the end of the war. For those of us who were not there, we cannot but imagine the fear, the worry, the terrible sadness at lost loved ones and not knowing when it was all going to end. 'But when it did, what wonderful, wonderful joy there was in our country. 'That is why VE Day should be remembered – as a combination of commemoration and thanks and celebration that it was all over.'
Yahoo
30-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Crypto Coalition Tells SEC Staking Is 'Essential Good,' Not a Security
The Crypto Council for Innovation is making a case with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that staking is not only a virtue for digital asset markets, but it should be hands-off for the securities regulator. The group — a coalition of staking interests, including Kraken, a16z, Lido, Galaxy, Figment, Polychain and Paradigm — argued in a letter to the agency's crypto task force that the logic behind the SEC staff's recent statement that "proof-of-work" crypto mining isn't a securities transaction under the agency's jurisdiction, should extend to the practice of staking, pulling it out of the securities bucket. "Stakers, like PoW miners, are compensated based on protocol-defined outcomes, not managerial actions or profit-sharing arrangements," according to the letter reviewed by CoinDesk. When users stake their coins, they agree to have them locked up for a certain period of time to participate in the operation and security of a blockchain, and they earn a return for that. Those who stake their crypto assets on "proof-of-stake" blockchain protocols are providing "valuable technical services," and the resulting rewards aren't passive investment gains, the group CCI view runs counter to the SEC's previous stance, when former Chairman Gary Gensler's enforcement staff targeted crypto staking operations, such as in Kraken's high-profile settlement with the agency as well as other cases, including one involving Consensys. The SEC also blocked staking in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tracking Ethereum (ETH) as it reviewed applications for those products in 2024. The CCI letter asked the SEC to provide guidance much like it's done for memecoin issuers, the miners and for some stablecoin issuers, declaring that their activities fall outside the agency's legal concern. While those statements aren't binding — not even as formal guidance — they're meant as markers to set the boundaries of the regulator's current thinking. "Domestically, some states' securities regulators are pursuing enforcement actions relating to staking," according to the coalition. "Guidance from the commission can help send a clear signal that, at least at the federal level, the U.S. is adopting common-sense regulations supportive of innovation and true to the limitations of the securities laws." Since the start of President Donald Trump's administration, the SEC has generally taken a much more friendly posture toward digital assets. New Chairman Paul Atkins signalled at his first public event on Friday — a crypto roundtable — that he's open to rethinking how the agency has treated crypto businesses. The crypto companies aren't alone in seeking a new direction on staking. In February, U.S. senators sent a letter to the regulator calling for it to reconsider its opposition to staking in the industry's spot ETFs. Sign in to access your portfolio
Scottish Sun
23-04-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
I was shot down, escaped PoW camp & fought for Russians… I'd do it all again, says pilot, 100, teaching kids about WW2
Joe Peterburs is one of five World War Two survivors taking part in VE Mail, a project where pupils can exchange letters with a veteran TRUE HERO I was shot down, escaped PoW camp & fought for Russians… I'd do it all again, says pilot, 100, teaching kids about WW2 FIGHTER pilot Joe Peterburs had to wait 80 years to complete his 50th wartime mission. His first attempt was in April 1945 when he took off from an airbase near Cambridge to protect US bombers as they flew to Germany in one of the last raids of World War Two. Advertisement 9 Joe prepares to fly his 50th 'mission' in a P-51 Mustang Credit: Damien McFadden 9 Joe and pilot Isabel Rutland executed a perfect victory roll above the English countryside Credit: Damien McFadden But after a series of dogfights in the skies above Berlin, Joe, then aged 20, was shot down and captured by the Gestapo. Incredibly, he broke out of a prisoner of war camp and ended up fighting alongside the Russians as they raced to liberate the German capital. Now, Joe, 100, from Wisconsin in the US, has shared his amazing story in a letter to British schoolchildren — and returned to the UK to complete his mission eight decades late. He is one of five World War Two survivors taking part in VE Mail, a project where pupils can exchange letters with a veteran as part of the 80th anniversary of the end of the conflict in Europe on May 8, 1945. Advertisement Like Joe, the veterans have each written about their life during the war and the lessons they want to pass on to the next generation. 'You think you're going to live forever' This month, on the anniversary of his last flight, a still sprightly Joe climbed into a two-seater version of the P-51 Mustang fighter-bomber he fought in. He and pilot Isabel Rutland executed a perfect victory roll above the English countryside — an air force tradition at the end of 50 missions. In a hangar at RAF Duxford, Cambs, Joe exclusively told The Sun: 'When you're young, you're full of pee and vinegar. Advertisement 'We all had a fearlessness with being young. You think you're going to live for ever, but that wasn't the case for a lot of men I served with.' Before joining the Army Air Corps in November 1942, Joe had been in the seminary for two years to become a priest. WW2 veteran and survivor remember the liberation of Bergen-Belsen concentration camp Based in England, he regularly flew half-day missions with no food or water on board his tiny single-seater fighter bomber. He recalled: 'A typical day, I'd get up about five o'clock, and you eat breakfast, go to the briefing, which is about an hour, and then you get ready to take off. Advertisement 'You fly a mission that's five or six hours long, and you get back, and then you're debriefed, that's about 45 minutes. 'And in all the time you're flying, you don't have any water and you don't have any food, so you go to the mess hall. I found a Russian tank convoy and started fighting with them — that could have gone badly Joe Peterburs 'But first you go to the bar for a drink, and all the pilots get together and we start telling lies about how great we were and then we'd go eat. Then you'd write letters home.' Joe flew 269 combat hours before being shot down. Advertisement He said: 'On my last mission, the bombers had about six different targets and it was one big force going into different places in Germany. 'Can you imagine 1,800 bombers and 950 of us P-51 Mustangs?' Joe's plane was named Josephine after his sweetheart back home in Wisconsin. He said: 'We became engaged just before I left. Advertisement 9 Joe in his wartime flying gear Credit: Supplied 9 Joe mans the guns aboard a B17 G Flying Fortress at Duxford Credit: Damien McFadden 'Her name wasn't on the nose of the aircraft, it was on the canopy. I put it there because it kept her as close to me as I could get.' At around 3pm on April 10, 1945, six hours into the mission, Joe dived to attack a German fighter, which had just shot down a fourth US bomber. Advertisement The German pilot, Walter Schuck, remembered being attacked from behind by a Mustang that hit his left wing and engine with .50 calibre machine-gun fire. As Schuck escaped into low cloud, his plane's left wing burst into flames and the plane went into a death spiral. The pilot bailed out at 1,500ft. Just 20 minutes later, Joe's Mustang was shot up and crashed to Earth, after he parachuted out. Joe said: 'When I was shot down, the first thing I thought was my mom's going to get a telegram. Advertisement Guardian angel 'My brother had been killed the year before as a submariner. 'All I could think about was how she would feel.' While Joe miraculously escaped serious injury when he crashed near Berg, 260 miles from Berlin, he was captured and almost shot before being sent to a prisoner of war camp, which he escaped from. He said: 'I'm convinced that I have our guardian angel on my shoulder. There are too many things where I should not have survived. Advertisement "I was going to be hanged by the German civilians who were coming after me but I was saved by a policeman. 'Then the chief of police of the town wanted to blow my brains out with a Luger and I escaped. 9 Joe flying high in the Mustang again Credit: Supplied 'I found a Russian tank convoy and started fighting with them — that could have gone badly. Just outside Wittenberg was the last battle I fought with them. Advertisement 'When VE Day came, I remember I wasn't as excited as the Europeans because I knew it meant, as Americans, we were going over to the Pacific to finish the war over there.' 'We did our duty. The world was in turmoil' Joe stayed with the Army Air Corps after the war and later fought in Korea and Vietnam. He has more than 35 medals, including the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Air Medal with seven Oak Leaf Clusters. Advertisement While Joe is moved at being called a hero, he is adamant the heroes were the men he served with. He said: 'I'm not comfortable at all being called a hero because I'm not. Along with all of my buddies we did our job. You should have something that you care enough about to be willing to die for it Joe Peterburs 'We did our duty. The world was in turmoil and the heroes are the ones that didn't make it. 'The rest of us were lucky to survive, but we're no heroes. Advertisement 'We did the best we could, and that's what anybody should do in whatever endeavour they're undertaking in whatever profession — do the best you can. 'You should have something that you care enough about to be willing to die for it. And when I was growing up, mine was my God, my country and my family.' Joe retired in 1979 as a colonel, going on to work in finance for the rest of his career. He said: 'If I could go back and do it all again, I absolutely would — but I'd do it better.' Advertisement JOE'S STORY Dearest children, MY name is Colonel Joe Peterburs and I was a P-51 Mustang American fighter pilot during the Second World War. I am writing to you as I fly to the UK from the USA, to return to the Kings Cliffe airfield near Peterborough, where I took part in 49 missions from November 1944. In April 1945, I was taken prisoner after my plane was shot down just outside Berlin in Germany. I was held as a prisoner of war at Stalag III in Luckenwalde for a week, before escaping and fighting alongside the Russian Red Army until the war's end. On VE Day I was in Wittenberg, Germany, having been retrieved by an American army unit just a day or two before. Though the war outside of Europe wasn't over, my first thought was that I was going to get home and marry my fiancée, Josephine, who I named my aircraft after. I had proposed just before I left for the UK and when I returned, we quickly married, before the war felt like it really came to an end with VJ Day in August 1945. The Second World War took me on a very different path in life. Before the war I had plans of becoming a priest and never marrying. Joining the air force changed my whole perspective on life and where I thought I needed to be. I am from a small town in Wisconsin, and so coming to the UK felt like a totally new world. You don't have time to think about the external things when you're at war and I learnt from a young age the importance of concentrating on the task in hand and living life day by day. My plane coming down close to Berlin was a big moment in my life. I shouldn't have survived and yet I did. Years later, I became friends with the German who I had shot down just 20 minutes before my own misfortune. He sprained both legs as he parachuted to the ground and in doing so was unable to fight again, something he believes saved his life. We met again 60 years later in California, and he became known to my family as Papa Walter. Some people were confused by our friendship but we knew that, despite being on opposite sides, we had both just been young men, each trying to protect our home. I believe it is important to be kind as it gives you more than it takes away from you, and in general it makes life a lot happier. I went on to serve for 36 years in the military and finally retired in 1979 at the rank of colonel. When asked what bravery means to me, I would say it's hard to define. As long as you're doing your best, that's all that matters. If it ends up being something others would deem brave, fine, but you'll find most first responders, such as firefighters, don't feel brave – they are just doing their job. It's because of humankind's kindness and other good traits that we have bravery. I urge your generation to seek peace and kindness. Life is important and should not be wasted. You have to love one another. Best wishes, your friend from across the Pond. Colonel Joe Peterburs 4 MORE HEROES YOUNGSTERS CAN WRITE TO MERVYN KERSH 9 Transport operator Mervyn Kersh, now 100 Credit: Arthur Edwards / The Sun TRANSPORT operator Mervyn, now 100, landed in France on D-Day and went all the way through Belgium, Holland and Germany. In April 1945, Jewish Mervyn became separated from his unit, so he went to Belsen where he befriended survivors of the concentration camp where tens of thousands died. JEAN GREEN 9 'Rum Bosun' Jean Green, 102, from Norwich Credit: Huw Evans Advertisement THE 102-year-old from Norwich joined the Women's Royal Naval Service aged 19 in 1942. Living with fellow Wrens in a cabin, she loved the work and became close to colleagues who became lifelong friends. She served at HMS Raven in Eastleigh, Hants, where her job as 'Rum Bosun' was to decide which conscripts got a daily tot of rum. JOHN ESKDALE 9 John Eskdale joined the Home Guard in Bristol aged 14 Credit: Huw Evans Advertisement AFTER faking a birth certificate, John joined the Home Guard in Bristol aged 14. At 17 he joined the Royal Marines and two years later he nearly lost his life when his ship was sunk in the English Channel. Of 458 crew who went into the sea, only 103 survived. John, now 103, was the last man to be pulled from the water. TOM JONES 9 Bombardier Tom Jones, 103, served in the Royal Artillery Credit: Sky News Advertisement BOMBARDIER Tom, 103, was called up to serve in the Royal Artillery as the war broke out in 1939, when he was 17. The signaller, from Salford, Gtr Manchester, spent time defending the Liverpool Docks before being posted to Burma – now Myanmar – for four years until the end of the war in 1945.
