Binding: Hardcover EAN: 9781845964160 ISBN: 1845964160 Label: Mainstream Publishing Manufacturer: Mainstream Publishing Number Of Pages: 240 Publication Date: October 02, 2008 Publisher: Mainstream Publishing Sales Rank: 834 Studio: Mainstream Publishing
See more information on Kitchener's Last Volunteer: The Life of Henry Allingham, Britain's Oldest Man and the Oldest Surviving Veteran of the Great War at Amazon UK
Customer Reviews
Average Rating:
Rating: - A unique story by a unique human being
I've seen so much of Henry on TV and in the press over the past few months - and his attempts to get out of his chair at the 90th anniversary celebrations at the cenotaph was very emotional. You cannot believe the tenacity someone of that age must have to get out and converse with people of all ages. I have bought and read the book and it is a fascinating read, it is astounding when you study the list of world events he has lived through - it is the history of the world as we all know it, which ... Read More
Rating: - Never too late
What amazes me the most about Henry Allingham's fascinating and inspiring life story is that for 30 years he lived a quiet life in his Eastbourne flat, and hadn't spoken about the War since it ended. Then, after reaching 100, his life changed completely and he's now had up to 47 event appearances in a single year. This shows astonishing flexibility and ability to change. It is a truly inspiring book. Aside from the personal aspects given to many historical events it is an account of the triumph of ... Read More
Rating: - Fine Work
The words of Henry Allingham are astonishingly sharp considering his great age. Thanks to his memories we get an intimate glimpse into Edwardian times. There are perceptive words too from the co-author that put Allingham's experiences into context. Altogether a fine work and a valuable resource.
Rating: - A remarkable life
Kitchener's Last Volunteer relates the story of a life remarkable in so many ways. Henry Allingham, the co-author along with Dennis Goodwin, was born in 1896 and the circumstances of his early life seem remarkable from the present day - truly a very different world
This memoir focuses on his experiences during the First World War, where he served in the Royal Naval Air Service and saw action at both the Battle of Jutland and Third Ypres, and his recollections of those events are interspersed ... Read More
Rating: - A privilege to read, and a joy too
I've just finished reading this - a book I devoured almost without putting it down. That 112 year old can really write!
Henry Allingham is a fascinating character - the only man alive who saw the Grand Fleet steaming towards Jutland, and also the last of those who fought in the first air war in history. Mr. Allingham has a dry, self-deprecating style which is highly engaging. I was drawn into his autobiographical tale, almost as if he had been talking to me directly.
