It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of Alec Penstone, one of Britain’s last surviving D-Day veterans, who died on the Isle of Wight on 28th May 2026 at the remarkable age of 101.

Many of our members and visitors will remember Alec fondly from the occasion when he visited the Museum of Ryde to share his extraordinary life story. Pictured with our Chairman, Brian Harris, Alec captivated his audience with memories of service, sacrifice, and resilience during one of the most defining periods in modern history.

Born in Tottenham, London, on 23rd April 1925, Alec was just fifteen years old when the Second World War began. Like so many of his generation, he answered the nation’s call. During 1940 and 1941, he volunteered in the Air Raid Precautions Messenger Service, carrying messages through the uncertainty and danger of wartime Britain.

In 1943, Alec joined the Royal Navy and served aboard HMS Campania as a submarine detector. His role was vital during the D-Day operations, helping to identify and counter the threat posed by German U-boats as Allied forces embarked upon the liberation of Europe. His service formed part of one of the greatest military operations in history, and his contribution helped secure the freedoms that generations have since enjoyed.

Yet Alec’s story was not only one of wartime service. On 21st July 1945, he married the love of his life, Gladys. Their marriage endured for an extraordinary seventy-five years, a testament to devotion, commitment, and enduring companionship. Together they built a life that reflected the values of Alec’s generation: loyalty, duty, perseverance, and love.

Following the war, Alec continued serving in the Far East until his demobilisation in 1946. Throughout his long life, he remained a passionate advocate for remembrance, ensuring that the experiences of those who served would not be forgotten. By sharing his memories with younger generations, he helped preserve a living connection to a chapter of history that must never fade from memory.

The Historic Ryde Society and the Museum of Ryde are honoured to have known Alec and to have welcomed him as a guest speaker. His presence, warmth, humour, and humility left a lasting impression on all who met him.

As we reflect on his remarkable life, we remember not only a D-Day veteran, but a husband, a friend, a storyteller, and a member of that extraordinary generation whose courage shaped the world we know today.

We extend our sincere condolences to Alec’s family, friends, comrades in the Royal Navy Association, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Alec Penstone’s watch has ended, but his legacy will endure.

Rest in Peace, Alec.

A true hero. A true gentleman. We salute you, Sir.