Owen Filer, 105, gave the dedication at the national ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Mr. Filer, a World War II veteran and the oldest man in Wales, was honored by everyone present including King Charles III, who came over to shake his hand and share a few words.
King Charles III greeting Owen Filer. Photo courtesy of BBC.
The ceremony was held outdoors at the National Memorial Arboretum and broadcast live by the BBC. The oldest veteran in attendance, Mr. Filer spoke on behalf of all his wartime comrades.
“For your tomorrows, we gave our today,” Filer told the thousands in attendance, standing upright at the podium, his voice strong. As he finished, a British Army honor guard fired off a 21-gun salute.
Owen Filer in 1944 during the war. Photo courtesy of Owen Filer.
Mr. Filer enlisted in the 9th Battalion of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers in 1940 and was posted to Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1944. Before being deployed, he married his wife Laura whom he met while in training. The two were married over 60 years. While he was away, he missed the birth of his eldest son Gareth on Victory in Europe Day on May 8, 1945. He learned of his son’s birth via telegram.
Today, Mr. Filer maintains an active, independent lifestyle and enjoys strolling around his hometown unassisted most days. At 105, he is a living emblem of courage and gallantry shown by millions of his peers long ago.
Owen Filer preparing to speak. Photo courtesy of BBC.
