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Hampshire schoolchildren are making sure the bravery of Southampton's war heroes is not forgotten.
Pupils from Sholing Junior School and Hook-With-Warsash Church of England Academy have designed an infographic to bring to life the important stories of Wing Commander James Nicolson VC, Pilot Officer Martyn Aurel King and Private Albert Henry Warne.
Working in close partnership with the University of Southampton, the schools today unveiled the board in the heart of Southampton, alongside the existing memorial to Wing Commander Nicolson in Guildhall Square. Relatives of the servicemen, RAF representatives and project supporters also attended the unveiling ceremony.
Richard Hutchinson, from Hook-with-Warsash and Sholing Junior schools, said: "We are so proud that the children have worked so hard to make sure these brave individuals are rightfully remembered."
Wg Cdr Nicolson was the only Fighter Command pilot to be awarded the Victoria Cross during the Second World War after his extraordinary act of courage took place in the skies above Southampton.
After his Hurricane was attacked by a German Messerschmitt, leaving the aircraft badly damaged and engulfed in flames, Wg Cdr Nicolson went to abandon the aircraft. But, when he saw another enemy fighter enter his sights, he returned to the burning cockpit to continue defending the city before eventually bailing out.
He suffered severe injuries in the attack, including the loss of sight in one eye. Despite the significance of his actions, the children discovered that Wg Cdr Nicolson's story is not widely known in Southampton.
Another of Southampton's heroes remembered on the infographic is Martyn Aurel King. Tragically, Martyn Aurel King was killed in the same action in which Nicolson would be awarded the VC. King was the youngest to fly and fight in the Battle of Britain and gave his life defending the city of Southampton.
The final hero recognised is Albert Warne. Bert was the last known survivor of the horrors of the Burma Railway - also known as the Death Railway - while a prisoner of war. When he returned, he spent his life working hard to ensure the service personnel would be remembered.
Acting Vice-Chancellor at the University of Southampton, Professor Phillip Wright, said: "I am delighted that we were able to support the children in making sure the memories of these three brave men will live on. The board looks wonderful on the wall of the Sir James Matthews Building and will be seen by our students, staff and the wider Southampton community."
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