Thomas Robson, born in 1931 in the mining village of Trimdon Grange, County Durham is turning 89 years old this weekend.
After a short period at the local coal mine he entered the Royal Navy as a Boy Seaman, at the age of fifteen, and enjoyed a successful career.
Having collaborated with Newton Press he published two books “A Lad From Durham” and “Boy Seaman R.N.”, Thomas went on to travel the world on cruise ships to deliver his lectures, retelling his story of his own experiences.
Thomas made connections with the United States and after travelling to Orlando with his wife Rita, he began talking with some of the US officiate and telling them about his experiences as a young seaman. The officiate from the Recruit Training Command invited the veteran to visit the next day.
Thomas was thrilled when, at passing out parade, the senior officers surprised him with a US honour for his service.
