Eighty-eight-year-old Carol Lockwood is celebrating a remarkable milestone with her husband, Derek – their 65th wedding anniversary. The couple's story is a testament to the enduring power of love and commitment.
Carol's late father, Flight Lieutenant Alfred 'Ginge' Culver DFM, was a pilot in the RAF during World War II. In a letter to his wife, Olive, written on August 1, 1942, he expressed his delight at learning of the birth of their daughter, Carol. The letter, which has been preserved, reveals Ginge's love for his family and his desire to meet his daughter.
Before joining the air force, Ginge worked as an apprentice at Anstey's in Maidstone. He met his wife, Olive, when she was serving at a local shop, and he instantly took a fancy to her. In 1940, they married and moved into married quarters, but within two years, Ginge was posted to Iceland to join the Coastal Command's 269 Squadron.
During his time in Iceland, Ginge got his Distinguished Flying Medal (DFM) for his bravery in the face of danger. However, his life was cut short when he disappeared during a search and rescue operation on August 31, 1942. The circumstances of his death remain a mystery to this day.
Carol, who was born just a few months before her father's disappearance, grew up knowing about the circumstances of his death. However, it wasn't until her mother passed away in 1992 that she found a cache of letters that revealed more about her father's life and death.
Carol and her husband, Derek, have been married for 65 years and have six granddaughters from their two sons. They share many interests, including sailing and aircraft shows, and have a strong commitment to each other. When asked the secret to their long marriage, Carol said, "We don't talk things through, and we can go silent for three days before there's a 'thaw.' And we pretend it didn't happen."
In 2014, Carol and Derek made a pilgrimage to Iceland to mark the anniversary of Ginge's death. They visited the site where he disappeared and stood by a waterfall that he had promised to show his wife. The experience was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served during World War II.
The Lockwoods' story is a testament to the power of love and commitment. Their 65th wedding anniversary is a celebration of their enduring relationship and a reminder of the importance of holding on to each other through life's challenges.
Carol and Derek's advice to couples who are starting out is simple: "Work at it and don't give in. Stick with it." Their story is a reminder that with commitment and love, anything is possible.
