WW2 Veteran Inspires Uncle Albert: A Tale of Resilience and Survival
In the iconic British sitcom “Only Fools and Horses,” Uncle Albert, portrayed by Buster Merryfield, is immortalized as a lovable character with a penchant for sharing wartime tales, often starting with the phrase, “During the war…”. Little did viewers know that this character was inspired by a real-life hero, Petty Officer Cook Thomas Henry Ward, also known as Harry, who served in the Royal Navy during World War Two. Harry’s remarkable story of resilience and survival in the face of adversity serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the war.
### The Unlucky Jonah: A Real-Life Hero Emerges
Uncle Albert’s character was introduced in the fourth series of “Only Fools and Horses” as a replacement for the beloved Grandad, played by John Sullivan. However, Uncle Albert was not a figment of the creator’s imagination but rather a tribute to the extraordinary bravery of Petty Officer Cook Thomas Henry Ward. Harry’s sister, Doreen Simson, revealed that her brother, Harry, served on seven ships during the war, all of which sank. Despite the heavy loss of life in each sinking, Harry miraculously survived, earning him the nickname “Jonah.”
As a child growing up in West London, Harry taught himself to swim in the Grand Union Canal, a skill that would prove invaluable during his time in the Royal Navy. At the age of 17, Harry joined the Navy and was serving as a cook aboard the minesweeper HMS Gossamer when he was called to assist in the evacuation of British troops at Dunkirk. Harry’s bravery and quick thinking saved the life of a Lieutenant Commander, earning him the Distinguished Service Medal from King George VI.
### The Arctic Convoys and a Tale of Survival
Harry’s wartime journey took a harrowing turn when the HMS Gossamer was sunk in the Arctic convoy routes, with Harry narrowly escaping with his life. Despite the challenges he faced, Harry continued to serve on various ships, including the HMS Leda, which was also attacked and sunk, further cementing his reputation as a survivor. Harry’s resilience and courage in the face of adversity were unmatched, earning him the respect and admiration of all who knew him.
After the war, Harry continued to work for the BBC, where he crossed paths with John Sullivan, the creator of “Only Fools and Horses.” It was only after Harry’s passing that Doreen and her family learned of his role as the inspiration for Uncle Albert. Harry’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, a testament to his unwavering spirit and indomitable will.
### A Tribute to Harry: A Life Well-Lived
Harry’s life was a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Despite the hardships he endured during the war, Harry remained steadfast in his commitment to serving his country and protecting his fellow sailors. His legacy as Uncle Albert in “Only Fools and Horses” serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in World War Two.
As Doreen prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day at the Royal Albert Hall, she reflects on her own experiences as an evacuee during the war. The memories of her time in Wales and the kindness of strangers have shaped her life in profound ways, much like Harry’s wartime experiences shaped his. Through their stories, we gain a deeper understanding of the courage and resilience displayed by those who lived through one of the darkest periods in history.
Harry’s bravery and unwavering spirit will forever be remembered as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, a reminder of the sacrifices made by the unsung heroes of World War Two.
