A WWII Veteran Turns 100 And Credits A Pint Of Guinness With Saving His Life
Ken Pusey was 18 years old and serving with the Royal Engineers in Antwerp, Belgium, in December 1944 when he made what turned out to be the most important decision of his life. He had planned to spend his day off at the Cinema Rex. At the last moment he changed his mind. A nearby club had just started serving draught Guinness. While Ken was at the club, a German V2 rocket struck the Cinema Rex. More than 1,000 people were inside. 567 were killed, including 296 Allied service personnel. "The chaps had no chance, they were annihilated," Ken said. "We just thanked our blessings, because but for the toss of a coin and a pint of Guinness, we'd have been dead." On August 17, 2026, Ken Pusey turned 100 years old. He celebrated with family, friends, and staff at Royal Star and Garter in High Wycombe, England, where he has lived since 2022. Among his birthday surprises were a card from the King and Queen, a package from Guinness, and a personalised Wycombe Wanderers shirt signed by the first team. His sister Doreen, also a resident at the home, was there alongside the High Wycombe Mayor.
Ken was born in High Wycombe in 1926, left school at 14, joined the Army in 1944, and after the war raised a family with his wife Pam including fostering many children. A century of ordinary and extraordinary life. "I have never taken that gift for granted," Ken said at his party. "I know life can change in an instant and that you must appreciate every day." He is 100. The pint of Guinness was 81 years ago. He still thinks about it.
