Donald McCaig, a cherished veteran, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and love in Manchester
Manchester: A beloved Second World War veteran, Donald McCaig, has sadly passed away at the age of 103. His family is heartbroken but proud of his incredible life.
Donald, known as one of the famous ‘Desert Rats,’ spent his entire life in Moston, Manchester. He died on December 10 in a local care home.
His funeral will be held on Friday, complete with military honors and a piper from the Army. It’s a fitting tribute for a man who served his country with pride.
He joined the Army as a teenager and fought in North Africa for five years, playing a key role in the Battle of El Alamein in 1942.
His son, Ian, shared that Donald was one of the last surviving veterans from the Second World War in Greater Manchester. He served with the Queen’s Bays regiment.
After the war, Donald worked as a cabinet maker and joiner. He was married to Hilda for over 70 years until her passing in 2019 at the age of 95.
Ian, who is 70 and lives in Bowdon, Trafford, reminisced about his dad’s enlistment at 18. He described the Battle of El Alamein as a turning point in the North African campaign.
Donald had a great sense of humor, often cracking jokes without even trying. He was deeply devoted to his family.
At his funeral, the Army’s Lancs. 4th Regiment will honor him with a trumpeter playing the Last Post.
Interestingly, Donald was born just after midnight on Armistice Day, November 11, 1921. However, the midwife recorded his birth as November 10 due to the somber nature of the day.
During the war, he served as a radio and signal operator and fought through Libya into Italy as part of the Allies’ efforts.
Donald’s father was also a veteran, having fought in the First World War. After losing an arm, he received a certificate signed by the King.
In a touching moment, Donald received a birthday card from Queen Elizabeth when he turned 100 in 2021.
He leaves behind a loving family, including two sons, a daughter, two grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.
His funeral will take place at St Mary’s CE Church in Moston, followed by a committal at Blackley Cemetery.
