Navy

95-Year-Old Royal Marine Veteran Honoured With Dark Blue Beret

A 95-year-old World War Two veteran has been presented with a dark blue Royal Marine beret in recognition of his dedication and service to the Corps.

During the Second World War Ernest Harvey, from Wimbledon, fought in a naval battle between the Royal Navy and the German Kriegsmarine, which took place in the Denmark Strait on 24 May 1941 and resulted in the sinking of Royal Navy battlecruiser HMS Hood.

A special parade and presentation was made by the Royal Marine Reserves (RMR) at Wandsworth Barracks to recognise Mr Harvey.

Royal Marine Warrant Officer Class 2 Richard ‘Chippy’ Thornton, who is based at the barracks, presented the beret.

It recognises Ernest’s service as a Ships Marine during the Second World War; prior to the formation of the Royal Marine Commandos, who went on to wear the highly-regarded green beret which is worn today. He said:

“We greatly enjoyed hosting Corporal Harvey and it gives us great pleasure to see him holding the dark blue beret with pride.

"It is very important to us that we look after those who served in the Corps. The Corps family is something that we take very seriously, from cradle to grave.”

Ernest volunteered for the Royal Marines in 1941 aged 20, following a childhood interest in the Sea Cadets. He had always been drawn to the Armed Forces, following in the footsteps of his brothers and father who had both served in the Army.

Within months he was drafted to HMS Suffolk and was aboard on the night the German battleship Bismarck was spotted, on his 21st birthday. He recalled:

"The alarm sounded and all crew were informed. I was a gunner at the time, manning and alternating between the 8 inch and 4 inch guns.”

“We were all aware of the sinking of HMS Hood and the huge loss of life. I considered myself to be very fortunate that I was still alive.”

Frances, Ernest’s daughter said:

“Dad was overwhelmed by the presentation and the effort that everyone went to. He had a very special evening and it rekindled many memories for him but also created lots of new ones. As his family, we were honoured to have the opportunity to witness our father and grandfather be honoured in this way.”

Frances was also keen to thank Armed Forces charity SSAFA, which has provided financial support to Ernest after he was advised to move into a nursing home due to deteriorating health. She said:

“If SSAFA had not stepped in, the finances would have been difficult for the family to cover. We are all extremely grateful for the help and support we received and would like to say a huge thank you to SSAFA for being there for us as a family and for being so friendly and helpful.”