Aldershot Town Football Club are saddened to hear of the passing of Lewis Trinder, Legion D’Honeur, on Monday 24th May 2022 at the age of 97.
He is best known at Aldershot Town for regularly presenting the ball at the beginning of our Remembrance Day matches and of course for his white beret, signifying his participation in the treacherous Arctic Convoys to Russia during the Second World War. Lewis also took part in the battle of the Atlantic with Capt. Johnnie Walker, fighting against the German U-Boats, and at the D-Day invasion of France onboard HMS Magpie.
His recounting of events was always mesmerising and detailed, told so that people would understand the events of WWII and importantly, remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Every November he could be found collecting for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, a charity he supported for over 30 years.
Lewis also ran the Princess of Wales pub for many years and often talked of the Aldershot footballers, such as Jack Howarth, who frequented his bar after the games. He realised how important the football club was to the local community, so in 2013 he contributed towards saving it. He always took an interest in the goings on at the club and asked ‘how they got on’ after every match. In later years his sight deteriorated but at any opportunity he still liked to sit in the stands and soak up the atmosphere of “The Rec”.
But most importantly he was a family man, a much loved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather and our thoughts at this time are with his wife Vera, his sons, Andrew, Bob, Keith and their families.
He was truly one of Aldershot’s characters, someone who will be missed by so many, not only at the EBB Stadium, but throughout the town.
Upon the news of Lewis’ passing, Chairman Shahid Azeem wanted to give a personal tribute:
“I was introduced Lewis in 2014 on the 100th anniversary of the WW1, where Lewis led on the club’s and town’s heartfelt tribute and acknowledgement to our current military personnel and fallen heroes.
“I really got to know Lewis really well over the past 7 years, where Lewis would always lead our Remembrance Day at the club, in particular our 75th Anniversary a few years back. Lewis also lead the Remembrance Day event when we played the FA Cup v Portsmouth FC on Remembrance Sunday on 100th Anniversary of WW1. The respect paid by both supporters playing British Army V British Navy on 100th Anniversary on Remembrance Day will live with me for rest of my life.
“I am sure the rest of us can never ever imagine the dreadful time facing a young man (boy) fighting for his country to ensure that we enjoy our freedom today.
“Lewis will always remain in our heart who did so much for our town, the Aldershot British Legion, will be remembered for his white beret and we will never be able to recompense the likes of Lewis who did so much for us.
“We Will Remember Them.”
