By Isle of Wight Observer
A portrait of Isle of Wight WWII veteran, Alec Penstone, is to go on display at The D-Day Story, in Portsmouth.
Alec, who served in the Royal Navy, was on board the aircraft carrier HMS Campania during D-Day, when it was sweeping mines and detecting U-boats. He also completed 11 Arctic Convoys during his wartime service.
The portrait was painted by Isle of Wight artist, Francesca Adami, who met Alec at a VE Day event. Over five months, she spent time with him hearing about his memories of D-Day, the Arctic Convoys, and his life.
Francesca said: “Dear Alec, he was one of our last true heroes, a gentleman till the end and an absolute legend.
“I hope everyone who sees his portrait can glimpse a little of what he and his brave friends went through in the war, day after day, for six years of their young lives, so that we could be free.
“It was Alec’s wish to share this painting at the D-Day Museum, and I am very grateful to be able to collaborate with them to help fulfil his wish.”
Alec died on May 28, at the age of 101.
Cllr Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, said it was a privilege for The D-Day Story to host the portrait, describing Alec’s story as “an important part of our shared history”.
The portrait will be on public display from Saturday, until Sunday, July 5.