A 99-year-old woman from Warminster who served as a codebreaker during the Second World War has had her memories brought to life in a powerful new campaign by the military charity Blind Veterans UK.
Alice Wolynskyj, operated the famous Enigma code-breaking machines at Bletchley Park as a teenage Wren, a member of the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS). She is one of 13 blind army veterans featured in a new series of watercolour illustrations released to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
The campaign – titled After the Darkness – not only celebrates the end of the war in Europe but also raises awareness of the challenges many veterans now face living with sight loss.
Unforgettable memories
Alice, who began serving at just 17, described the moment she heard the war was over as unforgettable. Her memories of VE Day were full of emotion – joy at the end of long, sleepless shifts and sorrow for the friends who had lost loved ones.
She recalls, “I remember we were walking down the corridor, getting ready for an evening watch. Our friend, Pam, came towards us looking so excited, saying, ‘The war’s over!’
“We couldn’t believe it for a moment, and then… oh, we cried and laughed and danced down the corridor! No more night watch!
Laughter and sadness
“It was such a revelation! We just broke into laughter and then some tears. We had mixed feelings because five of us were great friends and it was sadness for two because they’d lost their brothers in the war.”
Alice’s story has now been captured in a painting by War Horse illustrator Martin Impey, a long-time supporter of Blind Veterans UK. The artwork forms part of a special exhibition at The Cartoon Museum in London, running until 29th June. They can also be seen online.
Martin said, “The charity is very dear to my heart as I had family members who lost their sight after service in both the First and Second World Wars, so when they asked if I wanted to do this, I jumped at the chance.
“It’s so important that we commemorate this moment as one of the last times as a nation that we can show love, respect, and appreciation to a generation who gave so much for us all. It was an honour to connect with these heroes and to illustrate their memories of VE Day. I hope people enjoy seeing them as much as I enjoyed creating them.”
Claire Rowcliffe, Director of Engagement at Blind Veterans UK, said, “As darkness descends and veterans find themselves losing their independence, they can often feel isolated, helpless, and unable to cope. Luckily, our charity is here to help them regain their confidence and independence so they can live the fulfilled, meaningful lives they so deserve.
“Each story is unique and not necessarily what one would expect. Yes, there was joy, jubilation, and partying in the streets, but there was also mourning for those who had been lost, quickly changing societal roles, and fear of the dreaded war in the Pacific.”
The 13 veterans’ stories, illustrations, and portraits are currently featured in a special exhibition at The Cartoon Museum in London, which runs until 29th June. They can also all be seen at blindveterans.org.uk/victory80 where you can also help Blind Veterans UK support these brave veterans now facing a new battle against sight loss by donating to the charity’s ‘After the Darkness’ campaign.
Pictured: Alice’s story captured in a painting by War Horse illustrator Martin Impey
