MAUREEN SWEENEY, aged 100
An Irish post mistress, she also took weather readings. It was her reports that persuaded D-Day to be postponed because of a storm – thus ensuring its success.
PADDY MACKLIN, aged 65
An maverick who tried to circumnavigate the world, but failed to prepare properly – leading to terrifying adventures, mishaps, and a fear that he was dead.
ADELE SPRINGSTEEN, aged 98
A working mother from New Jersey, her son became a global music superstar – and she joined him on stage, becoming known for her love of dancing.
HUGH CALLAGHAN, aged 93
An Irish labourer living in Birmingham, he was accused of bombing two pubs. After cruel treatment, he spent years in prison until his innocence was proved.
RICHARD BARANCIK, aged 98
An American soldier, he was part of the Monuments Men who rescued great pieces of art from the Nazis, before becoming a renown architect – the Last Man Standing
JEAN VELOZ, aged 98
A competitive dancer who helped popularize Swing and the Lindy Hop, she became a film and TV star and a noted teacher – and was still dancing into her 90s.
BERYL SKELLY. aged 101
A political secretary, she worked for two leaders of the Labour Party before moving to work for a press baron, and was honoured for her services.
CAPTAIN VYVYAN HOWARD, aged 102
A Second World War bomber, he was shot down over Norway and sent to the notorious POW camp, Stalag Luft 3, where he contributed to the Wooden Horse and the Great Escape – the last survivor of that famous incident.
PAULINE GILL, aged 97
A WREN who was recruited to work for Bletchley Park during it’s wartime codebreaking programme, she kept her secrets for many years until they wereaccidentally uncovered.
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