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Last Battle of Britain pilot receives Christmas gift of new uniform

John and Wing Commander Rankin hold the restored medals.

The RAF delivered an early Christmas gift, of replacement uniform to Group Captain (retired) John Paddy Hemingway – the last known Battle of France and Battle of Britain pilot this week.

Earlier in the year, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, visited John in his nursing home, in Ireland.  John mentioned he wished he had been in uniform to meet the Chief, inspiring the Christmas gift he was to receive.

The gift was delivered by Wing Commander Jacqueline Rankin, Personal Staff Officer to Air Marshal Sean Reynolds, the RAF’s Air Officer Northern Ireland.  John’s son, Brian, also attended.

"My dad was quite emotional and grateful for this special Christmas present."

Brian Hemingway

John's medals were also returned, after undergoing restoration and cleaning work by the RAF Museum in London.

"I was honoured to be able to deliver this special Christmas gift on behalf of the Royal Air Force.  It was humbling to sit and chat with John, and to discuss his whole career."

Wing Commander Rankin

John and Wing Commander Rankin hold the restored uniform and medals.
John received his gift from Wing Commander Rankin.

Group Captain (retired) John 'Paddy' Hemingway is the last known veteran of the RAF Battle of France and the last of 'The Few' – those pilots who flew during the Battle of Britain, where he flew Hurricanes.  He now lives in Dublin, where he is cared for in a retirement home.

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