The last of the last - Claude Choules

Before his death at the age of 110 in May 2011, Claude Choules was the last man alive who had served in both world wars.

Claude learned life's lessons during a rural childhood in England and later in the Royal Navy as a boy sailor, before graduating to become an explosives expert in the Australian navy.

In his 80s, Claude began working on his memoirs with the help of his daughters, andThe Last of the Lastis a riveting account of his lifetime that vividly mirrors how the last century unfolded.

Claude had the insight of an ordinary man thrust to the forefront of international furore. He was opposed to the glorification of war, but his charming anecdotes honour a generation called upon to serve not once but twice. This engaging, wryly humorous autobiography reflects the amiable nature of a truly unique man.

Claude Choules was born on 3 March 1901 in Pershore, Worcestershire, and emigrated to Australia in 1926. Married to Ethel for 76 years until her death in 2003, Claude had 3 children, 11 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-granddaughters. He died peacefully in his sleep on 5 May 2011.

"An excellent window into the life of a boy seaman in the early twentieth century"
Navy News

"Claude Choules holds a special place in the country's history"
Sunday Times