LOCAL World War Two veteran, Ron Stone, has celebrated his 100th birthday.
Ron, who was born on 6th November 1919 in Milk Street, Frome, was treated to a surprise birthday party by family and friends on the eve of Remembrance Sunday.
Speaking to Frome Times, Ron said, “I never thought I’d get to 100! I retired early at the age of 63 – so it’s a surprise to reach 100!
“My secret to a long life? Well, I had a good home growing up and a good foundation at the start of my life. Both my mum and dad were born again Christians. And on 23rd June 1935, I became a Christian myself – I have never been let down by my faith. Also, as a youngster I was keen on sports like football and swimming. I was the junior champion in swimming in Frome, and I also played water polo for the town, until the war called us up.
“Looking back, I am proud to have been born in Frome – I’ve had a wonderful life here. It has changed a lot over the years! It used to be a little back town, and now there is so much work going on to modernise the town. I feel honoured to have the life I have – and one to look back on too.”
The day after Ron’s celebrations, the World War Two veteran took part in the town’s Remembrance Sunday parade and service. During the service, chair of the Frome Branch of the Royal British Legion, Jane Norris, paid tribute to Ron and fellow World War Two veteran, Ivor Pickford.
Ron served in the 44th Royal Marines Commando – he was called up to fight at the age of 20 in March 1940. During his six years away from home, Ron survived his ship being torpedoed in the Mediterranean and also fought the Japanese in the Burmese jungle.
“I felt proud to be at the Remembrance Service,” said Ron. “When I got there my mind went back to those times and the good pals that I had. We were together for six years – we knew each other’s ‘ins and outs’ – we had wonderful friendships, they were wonderful people. I am very proud to have been in the Royal Marines. I’m proud to be British.”
Picture: Ron with his five children at his surprise birthday party.
