99 Year Old Veteran Visits Ridgewood!

Thursday 6th of June 2024 marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a turning point in WWII and a huge moment in British history. At Ridgewood, we have commemorated this anniversary in a number of ways, including assemblies, lessons and our students contributing to a service at Mary Stevens Park.

In addition, today, we were honoured to have 99-year-old D-Day veteran Joseph Bullock share his incredible experiences with our students. Joseph, who served in the Royal Navy during WWII, was joined by fellow Royal Navy hero Bob Partridge. Joseph was one of ten men put aboard a Thames barge requisitioned by Winston Churchill, and sent over rough seas to land on Sword Beach. Joseph, 18 at the time, escaped the landings unhurt and completed service with the Royal Navy in Singapore before returning home safely at the end of the conflict.

In 2016, Joseph was awarded The Legion d'Honneur, one of France's highest honours, for his heroism. His stories of courage and sacrifice remind us of the immense bravery that shaped our world. When asked by our students what advice he might give to his younger self, Joseph highlighted to importance of loyalty and friendship.

Thank you, Joseph and Bob, for your service and for inspiring us at Ridgewood with your powerful legacy.