World War Two hero laid to rest at 106

Charis Scott-HolmEast Yorkshire and Lincolnshire
News imageJackie Kirk Three men in military uniforms carrying standards have lowered them to the ground at a funeral. There is a coffin on a plinth which is draped with a Union Jack flag and there is a photo of the man as a young sailor in a frame.Jackie Kirk
The Lincoln Royal Navy Association said George Pearson was "one of Lincoln's oldest World War Two veterans"

The funeral of a World War Two veteran who was awarded the Arctic Star medal was held at Lincoln crematorium earlier.

George Pearson, who was 106 years old when he died, had a guard of honour and the standards of Lincoln Royal British Legion, Royal Naval Association, Royal Marines Association and TS Wrangler were in attendance at the service, as well as veterans.

During his time in the Royal Navy, Pearson served on the ships HM Illustrious, Indefatigable and Biter.

Pearson maintained aircraft onboard the vessels during World War Two, and was awarded the medal at the age of 104 after his family realised he had not received it.

News imageJackie Kirk Four standard bearers stand to attention as they hold their flag poles upright. They wear military uniform and stand two either side of a coffin on a plinth, which is draped with a Union Jack flag. There is a photo of the man as a young sailor at the front of the coffin and a bouquet of flowers on top.Jackie Kirk
The Royal British Legion says there are about 8,000 surviving World War Two veterans in England and Wales

The Arctic Star is awarded for operational service north of the Arctic Circle during the conflict, and commemorates the arctic convoys that sailed to North Russia in support of the Russian allies.

Speaking at the time, Cdr Les Smith, who awarded Pearson the medal on behalf of the King, said: "We found out just a few weeks ago that he hadn't received one of those medals, that medallic recognition of all of that service he did - so it was an absolute honour today to present that to him."

Pearson's only surviving relative, a nephew, travelled from the US to attend the service.

Members of Pearson's extended family and former neighbours were also present, along with staff from Boultham Park House Care Home, where Pearson spent his final years.

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