WW1 naval veteran Stone dies

One of the four remaining British veterans of the First World War has died, his family has said. William "Bill" Stone, 108, took part in the 90th Anniversary of the Great War Armistice in London in November 2008. Mr Stone's daughter, Anne Davidson, said: "William had a remarkable, long, healthy and happy life. "He thoroughly enjoyed going to events, meeting people and, whenever possible, regaling those around him with his fund of Naval stories and jokes. "He loved singing, knew most hymns by heart and had an amazing repertoire of old-time songs - often with alternative words. "He was a very determined character both in his Naval career and in civilian life and, no doubt, this contributed greatly to his longevity. He was a man of great faith and his recipe for long life." Veterans Minister Kevan Jones said: "I am saddened to learn of the death of William Stone who was the UK's last surviving veteran from both the First and Second World Wars. "We owe a great deal to the men and women who served this country with such distinction during those wars to protect our liberty. "William was a man who represented the courage, spirit and determination of his generation. He was an inspiration to us all." Mr Stone joined the Royal Navy on his 18th birthday and followed his three older brothers by serving as a Stoker. During the Second World War as Chief Stoker of HMS Salamander, Mr Stone took part in the evacuation of Dunkirk, making five trips to pick up troops from the beaches. Mr Stone also served in the Sicily landings of 1943 with HMS Newfoundland. Mr Stone married his wife Lily in 1938 and their daughter Anne was born the following year. Mrs Stone passed away in 1995.

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ITN | January 12, 2009

Tags:. .salamander. .stoker. .saddened. .hms. .longevity