Video and Pictures by Matt Dempsey MD Media
VIDEO: WORLD War Two veteran Ronald Frank Melbourne, who sadly died home alone recently, was given a military send-off at Warrington Cemetery today.
Grey skies and rain couldn’t detract from the occasion as the former WW2 Royal Artillery Gunner, who was found dead at his Latchford home earlier this month aged 96, was laid to rest.
While little is known of his military career, as it was something, like many veterans, he rarely talked about, Ronald, who enlisted in the Royal Artillery aged 19 in March 1943, joining 227 Trg Regt RA (anti-aircraft) (Dvr) serving in the army until 1948, was given a fitting send-off at Warrington cemetery.
A horse-drawn carriageway, led by a piper, took him on his final journey as he was laid to rest as a bugler sounded the Last Post, as former veterans, military and members of the public paid their last respects, thanks to the efforts of his neighbour Cheryl Rouke and friend Julie Francis, who helped organise the military send-off.
Julie said: “It was an amazing turnout yet again for that generation we are sadly losing. It’s the least we can do to support them on their final journey.
“It’s an Honour to be asked to arrange it. Veterans know what to do once there.
“Today was no exception, perfect timing all around.”
