As part of the 80th anniversary commemorations of VJ Day, a moving tribute has been created to honor the extraordinary life and service of Royal Navy veteran Peter Foxon, now 102 years old. The South Kesteven District Council in Lincolnshire has produced a film documenting Mr. Foxon’s World War Two memories, which is now available in the council’s YouTube library. This thoughtful project not only preserves a remarkable personal history but also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during wartime.
Peter Foxon, from Deeping St James, served as a wireless telegraphist in the Royal Navy. His wartime journey took him from the stormy Atlantic to the Pacific theater, participating in some of the most significant operations of the war. His story offers a rare firsthand account of naval service during a global conflict, and it highlights the enduring courage and resilience of those who served.
One of the most striking details of Mr. Foxon’s story is how he entered the Royal Navy. Despite receiving call-up papers for the Army, he followed his mother’s advice and wore his Merchant Navy uniform to the interview. This simple yet strategic choice led to his release from Army service and allowed him to join the Navy, fulfilling a childhood dream. “I always wanted to go into the Navy ever since I was a boy,” he recalled. His early training as a radio officer in the Merchant Marines helped pave the way for his naval career.
In 1943, Mr. Foxon joined HMS Richmond, which was tasked with convoy duties across the Atlantic. These missions were critical to the Allied war effort, ensuring the safe passage of vital supplies between Britain and America. The dangers were immense, with threats from enemy submarines, rough seas, and aerial attacks. Yet amid the tension, there were moments of humanity and camaraderie. Mr. Foxon recounted a memorable incident involving the ship’s dog, a terrier named Timo. After slipping off the freshly oiled deck and falling into the sea, the crew defied regulations to turn the ship around and rescue him. Timo was brought back aboard, revived with a tot of rum, and resumed his place among the crew. I found this detail striking, not only for its warmth but for what it reveals about the bond between sailors and their shipboard companions.
Mr. Foxon’s service continued aboard HMS Nith, which played a pivotal role in the D-Day landings. In June 1944, the ship successfully launched soldiers of the Highland Division toward Gold Beach. Just weeks later, however, tragedy struck when a German aircraft drone packed with explosives hit the ship while it was stationed off the French coast. The blast claimed the lives of ten men, including Mr. Foxon’s best friend. “I volunteered to help recover the dead and we buried them at sea,” he said. The loss and the solemn task of burial at sea left a lasting impact, underscoring the deep personal toll of war.
By 1945, Mr. Foxon had joined the British Pacific Fleet aboard HMS Roebuck. As the Allied invasion of Rangoon approached, his ship encountered a Japanese convoy attempting to flee. The encounter revealed the harrowing reality of Japan’s wartime ethos. After sinking several vessels, the crew spotted survivors clinging to the wreckage. As British sailors prepared to rescue them, the Japanese soldiers detonated explosives, choosing death over capture. Mr. Foxon witnessed this act firsthand, a chilling reminder of the war’s intensity and the cultural differences that shaped its conduct.
South Kesteven District Council’s decision to document and share Peter Foxon’s story ensures that future generations can learn from and reflect on this vital piece of history. Councillor Phil Dilks, cabinet member for armed forces, emphasized the importance of remembering those who served. “Not many people are left who fought for our freedom 80 years ago and more. We have to thank men like Peter for their service, and never forget the sacrifices made.”
The film not only honors Mr. Foxon but also represents a broader tribute to all who served during World War Two. As the number of living veterans from that era continues to decline, capturing their stories becomes increasingly urgent. This initiative by the council is a meaningful step in preserving that legacy. It also highlights the value of oral history and the role local communities can play in safeguarding national memory.
Mr. Foxon’s experiences—from the Atlantic convoys to the beaches of Normandy and the final battles in the Pacific—offer a vivid portrait of naval service during World War Two. His resilience, humility, and dedication reflect the spirit of an entire generation. Through this film, his voice will continue to resonate, reminding us of the courage required to defend freedom and the cost at which it came.
For those interested in World War Two naval history, the Royal Navy veteran’s story, the D-Day landings, or the Pacific theater, this film provides valuable insights. It is also a testament to the importance of community-led efforts to honor veterans and educate the public.
