In a touching tribute, Prince William attended a memorial service today at Hereford Cathedral to honor Major Mike Sadler, the last surviving original member of the Special Air Service (SAS), who passed away earlier this year at the age of 103.
This poignant gathering brought together family, friends, and colleagues to celebrate the life of a remarkable man whose legacy continues to inspire.
Major Sadler, who died in January, was a decorated veteran recognized for his extraordinary contributions during World War II.
His bravery earned him multiple accolades, including the Polar Medal, Military Medal, and Military Cross.
His exploits were even immortalized in the BBC series “SAS: Rogue Heroes,” showcasing the daring adventures of the elite military unit.
The memorial service was a heartfelt occasion, with attendees sharing stories and memories of Mike, affectionately known as the last of the legendary El Detachment SAS, a group that referred to themselves as “The Origins.”
As the primary navigator of this elite team, Mike played a pivotal role in several daring missions that would go down in history.
One of his most notable feats occurred in the summer of 1942 when he skillfully navigated 18 jeeps across a treacherous 70-mile stretch of Libyan desert, all without lights or maps.
This audacious maneuver allowed his comrades to launch a surprise attack on enemy forces, resulting in the destruction of at least 37 aircraft.
Colleagues often described his navigational prowess as nothing short of superhuman.
After his military service, Mike continued to serve his country by joining MI6, the British intelligence agency.
His remarkable career further earned him international recognition, including a piece of Antarctica named in his honor.
In 2018, he was awarded France’s prestigious Legion of Honour, a testament to his bravery and commitment.
