For Ashton Hilditch, the Remembrance Service in Stone this year was extra special.
The eight-year-old St Michael’s First School pupil proudly wore the Second World War medals belonging to his great-grandfather, who was too ill to attend himself today.
His great-grandfather Arthur Nixon, aged 94, had never missed a Remembrance Service in Stone but had to stay at home today because of ill health. Ashton proudly wore the medals after being asked to perform the special honour by his great-grandfather, one of only three surviving Dunkirk veterans. Ashton lay a wreath at the war memorial on behalf of his school.
Arthur’s wife Joyce said he was extremely disappointed to miss his first Remembrance Service – but that he was so proud to ask Ashton to make sure his medals were at the service.
Joyce, who lives with Arthur in Fenton, said: “We’ve been to London many times for the national Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph in Whitehall. Arthur used to attend with the Dunkirk Veterans’ Association and he’s attended with the Royal Engineers as well. So he was incredibly disappointed to miss a Remembrance Service for the first time, as you can imagine.
“But he was so proud of Ashton and he loves the photograph. I’ve printed it out and sent it to all my friends! When Arthur dies, the medals will be passed down to Ashton’s uncle and, in time, they will go to Ashton. It was very emotional seeing Ashton wearing them, very emotional.”
During the Second World War Arthur was involved in the invasion of Sicily and North Africa, as well as the Battle of Casino and Dunkirk.
8 comments
Sidge
Sadley Arthur passed away on the 25th November. He had a full military funeral today 4th December.
Irene
Very proud my nephew could wear his great grandads medals .well done Ashton you made him really happy!!
Great Grandad Arthur.
I am so proud of Ashton for representing me at the Rememberance Service. I only wish that my other Dunkirk Veteran friend NORMAN LEWIS could have been there, but due to ill health he also could not attend. So nice to see the youngsters carrying on the good work.
jvictor7
Thank you so much for your lovely comment – and to all other family members. You must be very proud
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Joshua Cope
Hi Arthur,
I took the photo of your Great Grandson.
The admin for the website, Jamie, is after getting in touch with you about this story. Could you send him an e-mail on news@alittlebitofstone.com? Thanks
Sidge
You wore those medals and beret with such pride Ashton, and Grandad Arthur was thrilled. You made his day! Thankyou.
Ian Smith
Well done Ashton, you made your great grandads day
jvictor7
Hi Ian. He certainly did! Lovely story
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