15-05-2025
- General
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Veterans honoured as wartime memories shared in Pembroke Dock
Book launch and military tributes mark special anniversary
FOUR World War II veterans were honoured at a special event to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day at the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre, where a new book chronicling their wartime memories was officially launched.
The veterans—Tony Bird (Fleet Air Arm and Royal Navy) from Freshwater East, Idwal Davies (Queen's Own Hussars) from Llanelli, Duncan Hilling (Royal Welsh Fusiliers) from Saundersfoot, and Archie Thomas (Royal Navy Beach Commando) from Aberafan—were the guests of honour at the commemorative event, hosted by the Pembroke Dock Heritage Trust in collaboration with Age Cymru Dyfed and The VC Gallery.
A video message was also delivered by Arctic Convoy veteran John 'Bob' Roberts of Presteigne in Powys, who was unable to attend in person.
More than 100 people gathered at the Heritage Centre, including representatives from all branches of the Armed Forces and families of servicemen who made the ultimate sacrifice. Their stories are preserved in permanent displays within the Centre.
Veterans honoured: Lord Lieutenant Miss Sara Edwards with World War II veterans Archie Thomas, Idwal Davies, Tony Bird and Duncan Hilling. Back row (left to right): Wing Commander Tim Payne, Hugh Morgan, Carolyn Hodges of Y Lolfa, co-author Greg Lewis, Colonel James Phillips, Councillor Michele Wiggins, and Cadet Warrant Officer Archie Measey (Pic: Martin Cavaney Photography).
A highlight of the day was the launch of World War II Voices from Wales, a new book featuring the personal stories of Welsh veterans. It was co-authored by Hugh Morgan of Age Cymru Dyfed and former Pembrokeshire journalist Greg Lewis, and published by Y Lolfa.
Also attending were His Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Dyfed, Miss Sara Edwards; the Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Councillor Michele Wiggins; Colonel James Phillips, Veterans Commissioner for Wales; and Wing Commander Tim Payne of the Heritage Trust.
Adding to the day's historical significance, author George Edmunds of Weymouth was present to promote his book Call Sign N for Nuts, which recounts a dramatic 1943 air battle involving an Australian Sunderland flying boat from Pembroke Dock.
Visitors were treated to screenings of recorded veteran interviews, followed by a question-and-answer session with the four honoured guests. Outside, a convoy of military vehicles—including five restored Jeeps and a military Land Rover—formed a striking tribute to the era.
Copies of both books are available from the Heritage Centre on 01646 684220.
