Henry Allingham

Date of Birth: June 6, 1896

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: July 18, 2009

Biography

Henry William Allingham was born on June 6, 1896, in Clapton, London, England. He was a British supercentenarian and a veteran of World War I, recognized as one of the last surviving members of the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS) and the Royal Air Force (RAF). Allingham joined the RNAS in 1915 and later transferred to the RAF upon its formation in 1918. During his service, he was involved in various significant military operations, including the Battle of Jutland and the Western Front. After World War I, Allingham returned to civilian life and pursued a career in engineering. He worked in the automotive industry, contributing to the development of early motor vehicles. His expertise and dedication to his craft earned him respect and recognition in his field. Henry Allingham became one of the oldest living men in the world, celebrated for his longevity and his role in preserving the memory of World War I. He was an active participant in commemorative events and often gave interviews to share his experiences, advocating for peace and the remembrance of those who served. Allingham passed away on July 18, 2009, at the age of 113.

5 Interesting Facts about Henry Allingham

1. Henry Allingham was the last surviving founder member of the Royal Air Force.

2. He held the title of the oldest living man in the world from June 19, 2009, until his death in July 2009.

3. Allingham witnessed three different centuries, having lived through the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries.

4. He was awarded several honors, including the Legion d’Honneur, France’s highest military decoration.

5. Henry Allingham was known for his sharp wit and sense of humor, even in his later years.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henry Allingham

1. “I don’t know if my longevity is due to my sense of humor, but it helps.”

2. “War’s stupid. Nobody wins. You might as well talk first; you have to talk last anyway.”

3. “I just want people to remember.”

4. “I’m glad to be here. I’m glad to be anywhere.”

5. “The older you get, the more you want to be remembered.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Henry Allingham’s net worth is not widely documented, but as a veteran and engineer, his wealth primarily came from his pension and savings rather than substantial financial assets.

Children

Henry Allingham had two daughters, Betty Hankin and Jean Nield. Both daughters were born from his marriage to Dorothy Cater, whom he married in 1918. He also had several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.