Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) is appealing to the public for help in sourcing a rare Arctic Convoy veterans’ beret badge for Second World War veteran Robin Boodle, who celebrates his 102nd birthday today.
Robin is one of a dwindling number of living Second World War veterans and has a remarkable story of service. Joining the Royal Navy in 1939 at just 14 years old, he went on to serve for 24 years, rising to the rank of Chief Petty Officer.
During the war, Robin served aboard HMS Suffolk and witnessed some of the most significant naval events of the conflict. As a young sailor, he took part in the pursuit of the German battleship Bismarck in May 1941 and was among the crew involved in rescuing survivors following its sinking. He also served on Arctic Convoys, braving some of the most hostile conditions faced by Allied servicemen during the war.
To mark Robin’s 102nd birthday, RNRMC hoped to present him with a complete Arctic Convoy veterans’ beret in recognition of his service. While the charity has successfully sourced the beret itself, it has so far been unable to locate the distinctive embroidered Arctic Convoy badge worn by veterans of the campaign.
The charity is now turning to the naval community, veteran organisations, military collectors and members of the public in the hope that someone may be able to help.
Katy Trapani, Senior Communications Officer at Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity, said: “Robin represents a generation whose courage and sacrifice helped shape the world we live in today. At 102 years old, he remains an inspiring figure and a cherished member of the naval family.
“We had hoped to present him with a complete Arctic Convoy veterans’ beret for his birthday, but despite our best efforts, we have not been able to source the badge. We’re hoping that by reaching out to the wider community, someone may be able to help us track one down and complete this special gift for Robin.”
Today, Robin lives at Admiral Jellicoe House in Portsmouth, the Royal Naval Benevolent Trust’s care home for veterans. Surrounded by fellow former servicemen and women, he remains closely connected to the naval community he served for so many years.
The Arctic Convoys played a vital role in the Allied war effort, delivering essential supplies to the Soviet Union through treacherous Arctic waters. The campaign is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous of the Second World War, with sailors facing freezing temperatures, violent storms and constant enemy attack.
As Robin celebrates his 102nd birthday, RNRMC hopes the public can help ensure his service is recognised with a complete Arctic Convoy veterans’ beret.
Anyone who may be able to assist with sourcing an Arctic Convoy veterans’ beret badge is encouraged to contact Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity via digital@rnrmc.org.uk
