A 106-year-old WWII Veteran was honoured at a Harpenden care home today as he remembers his illustrious RAF career.
The team at Willow Court were "proud" to honour WWII veteran Raymond "Ray" Cooledge during their Remembrance Day service this morning.
At 106 years of age, Ray is believed to be one of the few surviving WWII pilots in the world, which is an ongoing investigation for the RAF Association.
Following the service, and a well-deserved glass of wine, Ray told The Herts Advertiser: "I'm not sure how I have made it to 106 but God has been with me every step of the way.
"The truth is I wouldn't have mind passing away a few years ago, but now I want to live forever. I have no regrets and continue to celebrate and enjoy life to this day."
The Royal Air Force (RAF) veteran said he had "no regrets" during his long life and continues to "celebrate and enjoy it".
Ray served in the RAF for 38 years, retiring in 1975. During his service, he flew over 40 different aircraft and landed at more than 200 airfields.
In his personal life, Ray met his wife while he was in Carlisle city hospital as she nursed him back to health. Together, they had two sons.
"I miss wife greatly and I love her now more than I ever did," Ray added.
Recently, the former fighter-pilot gave a two-hour interview at the RAF Museum in Hendon, where his story, along with the sacrifices of many others, is now preserved in the Museum's archives for posterity.
In a touching display of friendship, he was joined at the museum by his best friend and neighbour, Norman Wearne, also a resident of Willow Court, who is 103-years-old.
During the war, Norman worked in the design and construction of pistons for submarines and aircraft engines, including the Rolls-Royce Merlin engines used in the Spitfire aircraft that Mr C flew.
The 103-year-old also served as a member of the Home Guard, supporting the British Army.
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Both were unable to reveal their secret to living long and healthy lives, but a piece of advice echoed by the two was to "enjoy" it.
They said: "No matter what you do just enjoy it and if your not leave and pursue what does make you happy."
"We're not sure how we've lived this long, maybe our weekly glasses of wine help," they added.
Today, a special service was brought to Willow Court, as recent health complications have prevented Ray and Norman from their normal practice of laying the wreath.
They were joined by Harpenden Mayor, Cllr Pip Liver, and a bagpiper who performed "It's a Long Way to Tipperary" among other classic wartime songs.
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