Huddersfield Celebrates 103rd Birthday of World War Two Veteran

Lawrence Rogers turned 103. It was a surprise birthday party. He lives in a care home in Huddersfield. Lawrence served in the RAF as a wireless operator. He flew Lancaster Bombers during World War Two.

He wanted an RAF member to sing to him. Kris O’Donnell, an ex-RAF member, arranged the special visit. Sargent Ben Turner wore his RAF uniform and drove to Huddersfield. He sang “Happy Birthday” to Lawrence, and his wife baked a birthday cake. Lawrence was very happy.

Lawrence joined the forces in 1939 at seventeen years old. He has two children, four grandchildren, and eight great-great grandchildren.

Lawrence served with two RAF squadrons, flying Ansons and Lancasters. He completed 32 operations and spent time in Karachi and Singapore. Kris researched Lawrence’s missions.

Kris thinks Lawrence deserved the birthday serenade. Andy Booth, an ex-Huddersfield Town player, visited Lawrence too. He gave Lawrence football tickets, and Claire Thornton, Lawrence’s daughter, thought the party was lovely.