A WWII veteran has received an early Christmas present – the War Medal 1939-45.

Janet Patterson was given the medal by her children Gill and David, who applied for it on her behalf over 80 years after the conflict ended, and 80 years after she left the Armed Forces.

They believe the 102-year-old is one of the last living people to receive the medal.

Janet, who served in the Women’s Royal Naval Service, was presented with the medal by her daughter and son, on 16 December at Royal Star & Garter in Solihull, where she now lives.

Also present on the day was her daughter-in-law and granddaughter. The Home marked the special occasion with afternoon tea.

The great-grandmother was a Wren from 1942 to October 1945. She was a film operator, working on projectors which showed educational and instructional films to new Naval recruits as part of their training.

Janet’s husband Dennis also served in the Navy. The couple met during WWII while both stationed at HMS Glendower in Pwllheli, Wales.

Despite being eligible for the War Medal 1939-45, neither Janet nor Dennis applied for it. Dennis died in 2021, aged 98.

‘Not worthy’

Gill said: “It was typical of my parents not to apply for the medal, they probably thought they weren’t worthy of it. But in October this year it was 80 years since Mum came out of the Armed Forces, and we thought she deserved to have the medal – even if it is 80 years too late!”

She continued: “We think Mum must be one of the last living people to receive this medal. She’s an incredible person, and we’re so proud of her.”

‘I’m so grateful’

Janet said: “This is a big surprise. I never thought I would get a medal and now I have. I just need to wait for the right opportunity to wear it. I’m so grateful to my family for ordering on my behalf.”

Royal Star & Garter is a charity which provides loving, compassionate care and support to veterans and their families, living with disability or dementia, through its Homes in Solihull, Surbiton, High Wycombe and Worthing. The charity also provides services reaching into the community, including Lunch Clubs, Day Care and a national Telephone Friendship Service.

Janet has been living at the Solihull Home for two years and Gill added: “Staff at the Home look after her beautifully and it’s a lovely place.”

Royal Star & Garter in Solihull is welcoming new residents. For more information on this, its other services or to work at the Home, go to www.starandgarter.org/solihull