Sadly, Les Meakin, Leading Air Mechanic (Airframes), passed away, aged 97 (almost 98), on Boxing day 2022.
Les was 14 when war started, and was evacuated from Manchester, though later returning and experienced the Blitz, including when a bomb landed in front of the family home. At age 18 he enlisted and joined the Fleet Air Arm, which ultimately took him to Australia, and The Jervis Bay MONAB.
Post war, he became an apprentice and then a time served electrician. His work took him around many different factories and mills, where he met his wife. He continued working in the electricity supply industry until his retirement.
Post retirement, among other travels, he was able to re-visit Jervis Bay and meet old friends.
He is survived by his wife, three daughters, 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
Many thanks for the hard work of the Slipstream team. It brought Les a great deal of pleasure in his final few months.
Philip Oakley
(Son in Law)
