Tributes have been paid to Alec Penstone, a D-Day veteran who has died at the age of 101. Mr Penstone, who lived on the Isle of Wight, served as a submarine detector on HMS Campania during the Second World War, playing a crucial role in stopping U-boats on D-Day. He passed away on Thursday.
Royal Naval Association Statement
In a statement, the Royal Naval Association (RNA) said: “A proud wartime veteran, Alec lived an extraordinary life of courage, service and resilience, and leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.” The association highlighted that Mr Penstone was just 15 when war broke out and volunteered as an air raid precautions messenger during the Blitz. He later joined the Royal Navy at 17.
Reflecting on his early experiences, Mr Penstone once said: “At 15 years of age, pulling bodies out of bombed buildings, you grow up very quickly.” The RNA noted that he served aboard HMS Campania, an escort aircraft carrier tasked with sweeping for mines and hunting U-boats. “Much of his service was spent three decks below on constant action stations, listening for torpedoes, mines and enemy submarines in the unforgiving conditions of the Atlantic and Arctic seas,” the statement added.
Arctic Convoys and Legacy
Mr Penstone completed 10 Arctic convoys, returning home forever shaped by the experience and sacrifice of war. The RNA concluded: “As a nation, we owe our today to veterans like Alec. The Royal Naval Association was honoured to count him among our beloved members and shipmates, and we remember him with immense pride, gratitude and affection. Fair winds and following seas, Shipmate Alec.”
Captain Bill Oliphant, chief executive of the RNA, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of Alec’s passing. Alec represented the very best of his generation: courageous, resilient and full of life. He was a true legend, and the Royal Naval Association will honour and remember him always.”
Parachute Regimental Association Tribute
The Isle of Wight branch of the Parachute Regimental Association also paid tribute on Facebook, stating: “Alec was one of the last remaining members of the generation who answered their country’s call during the Second World War. Beginning his service in the Royal Navy in 1943, he served through some of the war’s most significant moments, including the preparations for D-Day aboard HMS Campania, before continuing his service in the Far East until his demobilisation in 1946.”
The post continued: “Throughout his life, Alec remained dedicated to remembering those who never returned. As recently as the 80th anniversary of D-Day, he travelled to Normandy to honour his fallen comrades, reminding us all that their sacrifice must never ever be forgotten. Alec was a proud member of the Isle of Wight’s veteran community and remained closely connected to his fellow servicemen and women throughout his remarkable life. His courage, honesty, and commitment to the values for which his generation fought earned him the respect of all who knew him.”
The association extended sincere condolences to Mr Penstone’s family, friends, and comrades in the Royal Naval Association and wider armed forces family.
Personal Reflections
Speaking to the Press Association in 2024, Mr Penstone said: “When I realised how many wonderful shipmates of mine died, and I just wonder why I’m still spared. But nevertheless it was something that’s got to be down in history and must never ever be forgotten.”
