Flight Lieutenant Colin Bell, aged 105 and the sole remaining bomber pilot who operated the de Havilland Mosquito during the Second World War, was received by the King at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday.
During the audience, the King presented the veteran with the citation accompanying his 1945 Distinguished Flying Cross.
The pair exchanged handshakes and conversation during their meeting.
In return, Flt Lt Bell offered the monarch a copy of his memoir, titled “Bloody Dangerous,” documenting his wartime flying experiences.
Flight Lieutenant Colin Bell, aged 105 and the sole remaining bomber pilot who operated the de Havilland Mosquito during the Second World War, was received by the King at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday.
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The memoir recounts Flt Lt Bell’s experiences piloting the Mosquito, nicknamed the “wooden wonder” owing to its predominantly timber construction, across 50 bombing missions over Germany, with 13 targeting Berlin.
His account details harrowing encounters with Messerschmitt 262 jet fighters pursuing him at night, alongside mechanical failures, fuel shortages, and perilous icing conditions.
On one occasion, an explosion occurred so close to his aircraft that shrapnel became embedded in his parachute, while his navigator’s flying suit bore burn marks from the blast.
Flt Lt Bell served with the RAF’s 608 Squadron as part of the Light Night Striking Force during the war.
His Distinguished Flying Cross was originally bestowed by King George VI, the current monarch’s grandfather, in recognition of his wartime actions.
The decoration is awarded to Royal Air Force personnel and members of other services for “acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty while flying in active operations against the enemy.”
His aircraft sustained numerous hits throughout his missions over enemy territory.
On Wednesday, the King also welcomed guests to St James’s Palace for a reception honouring the achievements of Britain’s Nigerian community.
On Wednesday, the King also welcomed guests to St James’s Palace for a reception honouring the achievements of Britain’s Nigerian community.
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Among those attending the celebration was chart-topping musician Tinie Tempah, who said he had been “inspired” by Charles “getting his hands dirty” in his environmental documentary about the Duchy of Cornwall.
Wednesday evening’s gathering brought together figures from entertainment, healthcare, and Government to recognise the diverse contributions made by Nigerians living in the United Kingdom.
During the reception, the King had the opportunity to examine displays showcasing work produced by young participants in King Trust International programmes operating in Nigeria.
The gathering provided a platform to showcase the cultural and artistic connections between the two nations, with particular emphasis on emerging talent and established creative industries.