103-year-old veteran shares war stories with schoolchildren

In Salford, England, a 103-year-old veteran, Tom Jones, recounted his experiences during the Second World War to primary school children. The event took place as part of a project commemorating the anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. Tom was only 17 when he was called to serve in the Royal Artillery at the outbreak of the war in 1939, spending significant time defending the Liverpool Docks before being deployed to Myanmar, previously known as Burma, where he served for four years until the war’s conclusion in 1945. This project, known as the VE Mail initiative, allows veterans to write personalized letters sharing their experiences with students across the UK. Schools can apply to participate, and in return, students are encouraged to write letters in response, fostering an educational connection to their history lessons. During his visit to James Brindley Community Primary School, Tom shared various stories from his time in Burma, including his work as a wireless operator in challenging jungle conditions and his interactions with Gurkha soldiers, whom he regarded as outstanding fighters. In recounting these experiences, he aimed to educate the youth about the harsh realities of war, noting the lack of documentation at the time. The history teacher at the school, Adele Jewell, highlighted how impactful it was for the students to hear firsthand accounts from someone who lived through the events they study in class. This direct engagement brings history to life and deepens student understanding. Tom's story incorporated both humorous and poignant moments, shedding light on the personal sacrifices he faced, including missing his wife during his deployment. Such initiatives not only honor the memory of past soldiers but also serve as vital educational tools to ensure that future generations recognize and learn from history.