Alec Penstone, a Royal Navy veteran who participated in 10 Arctic convoys and played a role in the D-Day Allied invasion during World War II, passed away on Thursday at the age of 101. Born on April 23, 1925, Penstone enlisted in the Navy as soon as he was eligible, having been 15 when the war began.

During the war, Penstone served aboard HMS Campania, an escort aircraft carrier tasked with protecting the D-Day armada from German U-boat attacks. Following his involvement in the Normandy campaign, he took part in multiple voyages delivering supplies to the Soviet Union via Arctic convoys, completing 10 crossings in total.

Penstone was recognized for his wartime contributions with the Légion d’Honneur, France’s highest order of merit, awarded in honor of his service on D-Day. He was an active participant in annual commemorations with the Spirit of Normandy Trust, which honors those who lost their lives during the Channel operations.

Known for his steadfast patriotism, Penstone was vocal about his personal expression of national pride. On Remembrance Sunday the previous year, he recalled his refusal to be dictated on how to display his love for his country. “I was born on St George’s Day and proudly fly my flag each and every day,” he said, emphasizing his determination to defend that right.

When asked about bravery, Penstone modestly downplayed his own actions, stating, “Bravery? We just did our jobs and to the best of our ability. I’ve always said I’m not a hero. I’m just one very lucky person.”

The Royal Naval Association paid tribute to Penstone’s enduring legacy, highlighting his courage and resilience throughout a life marked by continuous threat from torpedoes, mines, and enemy submarines in the Atlantic and Arctic theaters. “Alec lived an extraordinary life of courage, service and resilience,” the association said, acknowledging the demanding nature of much of his naval service.

Penstone’s passing marks the loss of a veteran whose lifelong dedication to duty and country embodied the experiences of a generation that endured some of the most perilous naval operations of the Second World War.