A friendship formed more than 80 years ago played a pivotal part at a celebration to mark a former Hull serviceman’s 100th birthday. Jim Gettings was part of the regiment which was one of the very first to cross into enemy lines on VE Day, having served in the Royal Marine Corps since he was just 18 years old.
The veteran, born in Springman Street, Hessle Road, is now a resident of Tranby Park Care Home, which this week threw him a big party to mark his milestone 100th birthday on Friday, November 7. And it was the first of three parties organised for Jim – with more celebrations being held with residents, family and friends.
Members of the Hull and Hessle Royal British Legion were at the Hessle care home to meet the guests of honour, alongside another former soldier Wilf Collingwood – who also celebrates his centenary later this month – who signed up to join the Royal Marines at the same time during the Second World War.
The pair completed their training together, and the British Legion said they believe they could be the last two Royal Marines from this area to have served during the war. Now reunited, the pair swapped stories and pointed each other out on photos taken from their training days.
While Jim chatted with Wilf and other members of the British Legion, they were entertained by war time tribute singer Sophie Rose, ahead of Jim being given a celebratory hamper from the Veterans Foundation for the amazing contribution the video of his war time experience has made to their charity appeal.
Deone Reynolds, lifestyle co-ordinator at the care home, said: “We had an absolutely amazing time. There were around 20 veterans and Royal Marines who all came to see Jim which was lovely.
“He loved it all. He’s quite a reserved person and doesn’t really like to be the centre of attention but he was really honoured having all those Royal Marines, old and young, veterans and serving sergeants who he’s never met coming to see him for his birthday.
“The things he can remember from that time – and he’s got some very comical stories. He likes to sit and chat about that time.
“He’s having another party with his family on Friday. He’s got family from every area of the country – one is coming from Cornwall – and they’re all travelling here to see him. He’s got a party here at the home just for family, and a party tomorrow and everybody’s going to be there.
“He’s a busy man. Jim is such a humble man – he’s very deserving.”
As previously reporter earlier this year, Jim, who became the head of North Humberside Libraries after the war, was delighted to be presented with a regimental cap in honour of his service during the Second World War. He had no mementos from his service, yet received a Royal Marine beret and cap badge from the Royal British Legion in Hessle Square at a special ceremony in May.
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