In Memory Of A Brave And Dedicated Young Airman
18th November 2022
Today, 18 November 2022, marks the 80th Anniversary of the landing in Trinity in the then German Occupied Island of Jersey of young French Airman Sous Lt Bernard Scheidhauer. His Spitfire, flown with the RAF, had been hit while on a mission over Northern France. Separated from his squadron in cloudy condition with damaged instruments and no means of communication, he mistook Jersey for the Isle Of Wight and fuel, almost gone, he landed in a turnip field. He was detained by the German occupying forces and taken prisoner of War. He was later involved in the daring plot known as "The Great Escape" but was recaptured and returned to detention. Later, when supposedly being transported to another POW camp, he was ordered out of the vehicle and with a fellow officer, shot while his back was turned. He was only 22 years old.
Today his dedication and courage were honoured in a service of Remembrance close to the site of the landing in the Parish of Trinity. It was attended by French Military Dignitaries, Officials of the Island, representatives of the RAF, The Royal British Legion and the people of Jersey.
The painting of Bernard, which I completed earlier this year, was on display at a reception following the service. I was delighted to be invited to attend. The event was covered by local media and it is my hope that this image of the young Bernard Scheidhauer will draw more attention to his remarkable story which is so representative of the spirit of his generation and their determination to fight for freedom and ultimately peace, willing as they were to give up their lives in this cause.
May we, who benefit from the privileges of the liberty won for us at such cost always remember the price paid for us and never take it for granted.
Bernard's story - and so many like it - inspires both respect and a desire for continuing co-operation and concord between Nations. Long may it continue to do so for generations to come.
Today his dedication and courage were honoured in a service of Remembrance close to the site of the landing in the Parish of Trinity. It was attended by French Military Dignitaries, Officials of the Island, representatives of the RAF, The Royal British Legion and the people of Jersey.
The painting of Bernard, which I completed earlier this year, was on display at a reception following the service. I was delighted to be invited to attend. The event was covered by local media and it is my hope that this image of the young Bernard Scheidhauer will draw more attention to his remarkable story which is so representative of the spirit of his generation and their determination to fight for freedom and ultimately peace, willing as they were to give up their lives in this cause.
May we, who benefit from the privileges of the liberty won for us at such cost always remember the price paid for us and never take it for granted.
Bernard's story - and so many like it - inspires both respect and a desire for continuing co-operation and concord between Nations. Long may it continue to do so for generations to come.