Former RAF Pilot, Squadron Leader Eric Robinson OBE was joined by family, friends and members of 611 Squadron based at RAF Woodvale for his 100th birthday celebration.
Cards from Her Majesty the Queen, the Chief of the Air Staff and 611 Squadron were particularly appreciated by Eric.
"I never expected this, it has been a complete surprise and a wonderful experience. I only wish I was the same age as some of the young RAF lads and could get back to flying at RAF Woodvale."
Squadron Leader Eric Robinson
Former RAF Pilot
Eric joined the RAF in 1941, spending much of the war as a pilot instructor in Canada, with some active service in Europe too. After the war, he then continued his RAF career flying more than 200 sorties as part of the Berlin Airlift, and was awarded the OBE for his part in leading a rescue mission on the frozen icecap of Greenland. After completion of his service and flying commercially for some years, Eric flew Chipmunks from RAF Woodvale with the Air Cadets in the 1980s.
"The RAF has been such a huge part of his life and through him the RAF has been a big part of the family’s life. It has been special to receive a letter from the Chief of the Air Staff and a video from the RAF Band playing happy birthday, but it is extra special to have the RAF here to share the celebrations. We are very proud of his service and all that he has done."
Paul Robinson
Eric’s Grandson
Eric shared many of his stories with well-wishers and was particularly enthralled by a Tomahawk aircraft flypast over his house on the Wirral.
"It was an honour to attend Eric’s birthday celebration and to pass on the best wishes of the Royal Air Force to such an incredible man. It is very important to continue to show our gratitude to our Veterans and to recognise the sacrifices they have made and the bravery they have displayed."
Warrant Officer Mathison
611 Squadron
The RAF wish Eric Happy 100th Birthday!
