RJAH hosts 106th birthday celebration for D-Day veteran

The Veteran’s Orthopaedic Service at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) proudly hosted a special celebration to mark the 106th birthday of Colin Cole, a D-Day veteran from Oswestry. 

The birthday celebration was held in the social café space within the Headley Court Veterans’ Orthopaedic Centre – and brought together friends old and new, with music from across Colin’s lifetime, singing, birthday cake, and plenty of shared stories. 

Colin spent five years in the Royal Air Force (RAF) sea rescue, starting in January 1939, working 40-hour shifts, and assisting in the Dunkirk evacuations, D-Day, and VE Day.  

Despite five years flying over the sea and rescuing fellow soldiers, Colin never learned how to swim. 

After his military career, Colin worked as a teacher at Oswestry CofE School, specialising in helping children with learning difficulties to read. Colin loved his time as a teacher, and said he still sees some of his pupils, but amusingly commented that they are grandparents themselves now. 

Colin is also a member of the local British Legion and has been for many years. He enjoys attending as a way to socialise and see familiar faces. 

When asked the secret to his long life, Colin simply said it was due to his “misspent youth.” 

Lieutenant Colonel Carl Meyer, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and Clinical Lead for the Veteran’s Orthopaedic Service, said: “It was an absolute honour to celebrate Colin’s 106th birthday with him.  

“He’s an incredible man with a remarkable story, and we were proud to host an event that brought together so many people to recognise his life and service.  

“Events like this remind us of the importance of community, connection, and celebrating the contributions of our veterans.”