Ronnie Scott, beloved WWII pilot, passes away at 107

Ronnie Scott was born on October 20, 1917, in Villa Devoto, Buenos Aires, to a Scottish father and an English mother. He spent his early years in Belgrano, where he received education at local institutions. Inspired to fly after a meeting with a prince, Scott joined the British Latin American Volunteer group in May 1942 to pursue his dream of military aviation while caring for his sick mother. After training, he became a sub-lieutenant in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, flying several types of aircraft, including the Spitfire, Sea Hurricane, and Seafire. Although he did not see combat during World War II, Scott contributed significantly to the war effort as an instructor pilot. After the war, he mustered out of the RNVR in 1946, later joining the Argentine Navy as a reserve officer before transitioning to a commercial pilot career. Throughout his life, he expressed respect for both British and Argentine aviators, demonstrating the spirit of reconciliation between the two nations. In recognition of his contributions and the mutual respect developed post-war, Ronnie Scott was honored as the doyen of Argentine Naval Aviation in 2018 and became a life member of the Fleet Air Arm Officer's Association in 2021. He also received the Condecoración de la Armada Argentina in 2022. His legacy includes inspiring future generations with his dedication to aviation and service, leaving a lasting mark on both British and Argentine military aviation. When he passed away at 107, tributes poured in recognizing his service and impact on the community, reflecting the deep respect he garnered through his life's work. Kirsty Isobel Hayes, the British ambassador to Argentina, noted that his departure saddens both nations, highlighting Scott's dual heritage and universal understanding wrought from his life experiences.