A Resident at HC-One’s Priorslee House Care Home in Telford has been sharing his memories of the last coronation, when he was serving as a soldier in Germany.
Permanent Resident Brian Ladd was on active duty during Queen Elizabeths coronation in 1953. To mark the occasion, he and his fellow soldiers took part in a replica service parade outside the 13th century Paderborn Cathedral in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
Reflecting on the celebrations, Brian said:
“We held the parade at Paderborn Cathedral then had a big coronation meal afterwards. I remember it in particular because it was the only day we were allowed a beer with our dinner!
Asked how he would be celebrating the Kings coronation on the 6th May, he commented:
“I’m looking forwards to enjoying a beer with my lunch – just as I did for Queen Elizabeth in 1953”.
Brian served in the armed forces for over 25 years and became a Warrant Officer, the most senior soldier rank, following his years of outstanding service. He currently has his official warrant framed on the wall of his room wall at Priorslee House and has warm recollections of his military career:
“I enjoyed being in the army, every day was interesting. I met many good friends during my years in service.”
Home Manager Anita Horton said:
“Brian has so many wonderful stories about his service, we are honoured to listen to the wonderful things he has accomplished.
We are all looking forward to celebrating the Kings coronation with him and our other Residents next month.”