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Friday, March 29, 2024

Veteran Clem Jones turns 100

Veteran Charles Clement Jones celebrated his 100th birthday this week.

Charles is known by the name Clem, but says he likes to be called Charles by the ladies!

Born in Newport, Wales, Clem enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force in January 1942 and was a warrant officer with 1435 Squadron and 185 RAF Fighter Squadron.

He served through the Suez Canal, Egypt, Malta, Italy and up to the Austrian border. He achieved his childhood dream of learning to fly and became a Spitfire pilot. His squadron gave air support to the 5th U.S. Army.

Clem this week had some advice for younger serving members, ‘stay alert and don’t give up! Don’t forget to duck.’

While Clem was serving, his mother sadly passed away. He came home to his father and brother but was a bit lonely on his return and had some terrible nightmares relating to his service. He went on to become a flying instructor and gained his commercial pilot’s licence and also achieved his multi-engine ticket.

Later he became a carpenter and joiner and after a while became a sales manager in the building industry.

Clem was always active and loved playing golf. Clem credits his long life to being active, a hard worker, a non-smoker and non-drinker.

Happy birthday Clem and thank you for your service. #TYFYS#OurVeterans

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