As the nation commemorates the 80th anniversary of VE Day, HC-One’s Haywood Lodge Care Home, in Mappleborough Green, Warwickshire, proudly honoured one of its own wartime heroes – 101-year-old resident and World War II veteran Charlie Henry Barnes.
Charlie has been sharing his memories of World War II and Victory in Europe (VE) Day, to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, on May 8, 2025. Born in 1924 in Warwick Street, Birmingham, Charlie grew up in humble beginnings with his parents, Don and Hilda, and his two sisters.
He attended St John’s First School and Floodgate Street School, living in Warwick Street until 1935 when his family relocated to Hall Green. Charlie remained with his parents until he married his beloved wife, Jean, who he shared a joyful 60-year marriage.
Together, they raised their son, Roy. Charlie’s working life began in a shoe factory, where he repaired army belts before enlisting in 1944. He vividly recalls signing up alongside a comrade who tragically lost his life upon landing in France.
Charlie served in India and Burma, arriving at the front line in 1945. He experienced a single skirmish before the atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, marking the end of the war in August 1945.
Charlie remained in India until 1947, returning home to marry Jean and begin a 30-year career at Cadbury, where he was celebrated on his 100th birthday with a special cake from the company.
Reflecting on his wartime experiences, Charlie has shared that while the war was frightening and he lost friends, it also brought meaningful connections, new friendships, and memorable encounters.
Last year, Charlie visited a local school to share his D-Day experiences, an emotional and rewarding event that left a lasting impact on both students and teachers. His presence continues to inspire all who know him.
Georgia Cooney, HC-One’s Haywood Lodge Care Home Manager, said:
“We feel truly honoured to have Charlie living with us. His stories of courage, friendship, and resilience are a gift to our community, and we’re proud to care for him as we mark this historic VE Day.”
For more information, call 01527 911 005, email [email protected] or visit Haywood Lodge - Care Home in Mappleborough Green, Warwickshire| HC One.
Haywood Lodge is a 66-bed care home in Studley operated by HC-One. All 66 bedrooms are en-suite, enabling the home to deliver person-centred care in a dignified manner, promoting independence as far as possible.