Legion president pays tribute at funeral of former RAF pilot 

THE president of the Henley Royal British Legion branch attended the funeral of a former RAF pilot.

Peter MacGregor died at the Townsend House care home in Headington, Oxford, aged 87.

But because he had no family left to attend the funeral a call went out to the Legion to help with the service.

As a result, six standard bearers and other members attended the funeral in the memorial chapel at Oxford crematorium.

They included Henley’s John Green, who said: “I had the privilege of parading our branch standard.

“During his RAF career, Peter served with the famous 617 Squadron, the Dambusters, and 213 Squadron. Later he became a civilian airline pilot. Sadly, Peter had no known living relatives. Nevertheless, it was decided to honour his memory with a full turnout at his funeral.

“This included six standard bearers from county Legion branches and the Royal Air Force Association.

“Mourners included a strong contingent of Legion bikers, many serving RAF officers and a group of carers from Townsend House. The brief but moving service was led by the chaplain Andy Hanson, who in his eulogy stressed that despite lack of Peter’ s family, the military ‘family’ will always stand by and support and honour those who served their country.

“This service was a shining example. The well-attended wake was at the care home demonstrated both how highly they regarded Peter in life and their sense of loss at his passing.”