The nation’s oldest Second World War veteran – and one of the UK’s oldest men – has died aged 109.
Hero sailor Frank Chester, who was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his wartime bravery, passed away on 19 April – just nine days after celebrating his birthday.
He is believed to have been the oldest surviving WW2 veteran, according to the Royal British Legion.
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Frank died at a Sanctuary Care nursing home in Malvern, Worcestershire, his family confirmed, as reported by Need To Know.
At the time of his death, relatives said he was the oldest man in Worcestershire and the third oldest in the entire UK.
Born in April 1917 in Ludlow, Shropshire, Frank worked for HM Customs and Excise before being called up to serve his country.
During the war, he served aboard a corvette escorting Arctic convoys to and from Russia – one of the most dangerous missions of the conflict.
Despite his courage, his daughter Ruth Pole revealed he actually suffered from sea sickness throughout his naval service.
After the war, Frank settled in Walsall, where he spent most of his life.
In 1949, he met Elizabeth Proud – the woman who would become his wife – and the couple enjoyed more than 50 years together.
He later returned to work for HMRC, staying in the role until his retirement in 1987.
Even into his later years, Frank remained active and dedicated to helping others.
At 100 years old, he was still volunteering at his local food bank and living independently.
His daughter Ruth said he began speaking more openly about his wartime experiences after retiring – even reconnecting with former Navy colleagues.
Tributes are expected to pour in for the decorated veteran, remembered for both his service and his extraordinary long life.
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