96-year-old veteran pilot honoured with D Day Darlings song
By Grace Kennington 7th Jun 2026
96-year-old pilot and only surviving member of Queen Elizabeth II's coronation flypast has been honoured in a special performance by the D Day Darlings.
Terry Davey Smith, from Melbourne, was surprised in May by the Melbourne and Community Probus as part of their 50th Anniversary.
During his time as a pilot, Terry flew as part of the coronation flypast over Buckingham Palace on 2 June 1953 at the age of just 23.
He went on to serve in 31 and 80 Squadrons and moved to RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire in 19161.
He returned to the air base in 2023 to see the rehearsals of the flypast for the King.
Terry was surprised at a performance of the D Day Darlings at the assembly rooms in May, where the song 'I'll remember you' was dedicated to him.
The Melbourne Probus spent over six months planning and executing the surprise for Terry with the lead singer and founder of the D Day Darlings, Katie Ashby.
'What a thrill it was for Terry to be able to attend and to meet him after the show,' said Katie.
President of Melbourne Probus Martin Cooper said: 'This surprise for Terry was six months in the planning.
'It made for a special occasion and one of the highlights of our anniversary year so far.'
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