VE Day 80: 102-year-old veteran shares memories of bittersweet celebration
Harold Fenwick was serving in Edinburgh on 8 May 1945 when he heard the news of the end of the war.
Thought to be the only British veteran from the Second World War living in Cyprus, 102-year-old Harold was invited to VE Day 80 celebrations at British Forces Cyprus HQ in Episkopi.
Training as a gunner, Harold joined the Scottish Rifles, the Cameronians, as a Platoon Commander, and was wounded on D-Day before finishing the war at home in Scotland.
"I was taking a party of troops through to Edinburgh to help reacquaint themselves with civvy street when suddenly the news came out about VE Day," he said.
"Edinburgh's Princes Street became absolutely mobbed from side to side and end to end."
But despite his joy in victory, Harold also felt the sadness of personal loss.
"It was a wonderful celebration, but you couldn't help remembering all those who lost their lives in winning that war," he said.
"I mourn for all those who fell by my side and who didn't make it. Also, for my kid brother who was in the RAF. He was shot down over France."
Harold also commended Britain's allies who shared the sacrifice in defeating the Nazis.
"It was a combined operation and a combined celebration," he said.
In the 15th Scottish Infantry Division, Harold fought during the D-Day landing at Arromanches-les-Bains, where he was wounded in action.
"I survived the machine guns and booby traps of which there were plenty, but the mortar bomb got me in the back. I had to be flown home to the UK."
Alongside meeting other British veterans at the BFBS party in Episkopi, he met Commander of British Forces Cyprus, Major General Tom Bewick.
The 102-year-old has lived in Cyprus in the village of Kouklia for 30 years. He's supported by forces charities, including SSAFA, which helped to arrange his visit to the base.
Sandi Pennington, SSAFA chairperson in Cyprus, said: "Our support covers all veterans and their families from all the Armed Forces, including those that have completed their National Service who live in Cyprus."
"It is with absolute pleasure, respect and gratitude, we can provide this for Harold, a VE veteran in this milestone year of remembrance."
Sarah Geddes, Army Benevolent Fund chair in Cyprus, said: "Harold is one of the many veterans in Cyprus who we have the privilege and honour to support.
"Teaming up with SSAFA Cyprus and their caseworkers, we can ensure Harold has support both financially and emotionally when he needs it."
The charities have recently provided Harold with a mobility scooter.
His friend and SSAFA volunteer caseworker Robbie said: "He's called 'Harry the Legend' by the locals."
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