We will remember them - And as we do, we must also celebrate those service men who fought in World War II who are still able to share their fascinating, heroic and moving stories.
Roy Cunio, 99 years of age, celebrated 70 years in Freemasonry on Tuesday 8th November - Roy how can we ever thank you?!
After leaving college, Roy joined the army and was in the forces from 1941 to 1947. Roy made many parachute jumps behind enemy lines. He was always the first to jump out of the plane because he had the wireless strapped to his legs. The man behind carried the batteries. Roy had to stand astride the hole in the floor of the plane and wait for a green light. He was dropped behind enemy lines on D-Day with the aim of capturing the German 'big guns'. They lost over 30% of the company. He was also involved in the battle for Pegasus Bridge.
On one jump his parachute didn't open properly which left him paralysed down one side for 6 months. Roy also spent two months in France making his way up to Germany, again behind enemy lines. Roy was 19!
On 19 October 2015 Roy received the rank of Chevalier in the Ordre national de la Legion d’honneur for his efforts in the liberation of France during World War II.
After the war Roy served two years in Palestine taking flack from both the Israelis and the Palestinians. He took the view that 'Nobody wants to shoot Cunio' and just kept going. Through the Army’s scheme, he qualified to return and attend university in England, but by then was married with a child on the way and never took up the offer.
He returned to civilian life and re-joined the Pharmaceutical trade, spending his time in the world of microbiology, but nevertheless remained in the Territorial Army until 1953. Roy joined Freemasonry after leaving the army after the Second World War. His proposer and seconder were Army officers. Until his retirement in 1988, he was leading a team of biologists, traveling around the countryside, meeting people and enjoying his Freemasonry, being the Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Masonic Association from 1968-1969.
