Home / War and Conflict / VE Day: 105-Year-Old Veteran Recalls WWII Cooking Duties
VE Day: 105-Year-Old Veteran Recalls WWII Cooking Duties
8 May
Summary
- A 105-year-old veteran shares her VE Day experiences as a WWII army cook.
- She fondly recalls camaraderie and the lighter moments during her service.
- Care homes and IWM Duxford are hosting VE Day commemorative events.
As VE Day approaches, 105-year-old Elsie Wilkins, a former cook for the British Army's women's branch during World War Two, has shared her wartime recollections. Wilkins, who has lived in Peterborough since 1985 and now resides at Clayburn Court care home, described her service as an enjoyable experience that fostered a sense of unity.
She recounted the daily tasks, which included preparing food for soldiers, and mentioned dealing with occasional unpleasant individuals. Wilkins also spoke about her younger days in London and meeting her husband, a former prisoner of war, at eighteen. Her reflections offer a poignant glimpse into life during the conflict.
Elsewhere, other veterans are also being honored. Colin Goodson, who served in the Royal Corps of Signals between 1947 and 1948 in Asia, shared his own experiences, describing his service as a significant learning period. Care homes, including Clayburn Court, are planning VE Day commemorations. Additionally, IWM Duxford in Cambridgeshire, a historic World War Two fighter station, will host a flying day event.
