102nd Birthday Celebration

Cheers to Cyril! 102-year-old celebrates birthday with a shot of navy rum

The Royal Navy Association set the mood by playing some classic tunes before presenting the man of the moment with a bottle of rum. Cyril Whitaker celebrated turning 102 years old with a shot of rum alongside friends, nurses, and comrades from the Royal Navy. Shots were dished out between the veterans as well as residents from Woodlands Care home in Aberdeen. While his far-flung family were unable to attend, Cyril received a call from both his son in Canada and his daughter in Australia on Thursday morning. And he still got to spend the day with his loved ones from home, including his favourite nurse Prashna. Cyril has made the most of his 102 years, having many adventures on the HMS Spirit submarine. His service on the vessel was just one part of a decorated career at sea with the navy – though he never did quite get around to learning to swim. As a nice surprise for the centenarian, he was welcomed into the cafe area at the home with salutes from his fellow veterans. The Royal Navy Association were in attendance at the celebrations, bringing with them an array of gifts – including that special bottle of rum. Ray Clarke a veteran from the RNA said: “It was an honour and a privilege for us to be here today. “As we say, if you’re once Navy, you’re always Navy.” Doug Armstrong, an ex-submariner said: “The submarine I was on was relative luxury compared to what Cyril had to deal with. “Cyril and his crew did a fantastic service.” Cyril Whitaker – 102 years well spent

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