A portrait of the last Battle of Britain pilot, John "Paddy" Hemingway, will be handed over at the National Museum of Ireland on Thursday.
Group Captain Hemingway, originally from Dublin, was the final surviving member of "The Few" who took to the skies in 1940 to defend the UK against Luftwaffe attacks in what became a pivotal moment of the Second World War.
He died in March this year at the age of 105. His portrait will find a permanent home at the Irish National Museum.
Portrait unveiled on 105th birthday
The portrait was unveiled by Hemingway at the British Embassy in Dublin last year to mark his 105th birthday.
Welsh artist Dan Llywelyn Hall, 44, painted the work depicting the war hero, who was the last living pilot from the Battle of Britain and who would have turned 106 on July 17.
Llywelyn Hall is known for numerous portraits of public figures including the Queen, Shane MacGowan and Amy Winehouse. The artist expressed his pleasure at the portrait finding a permanent home in Ireland.
Artist praises 'remarkable life'
Mr Llywelyn Hall said: “I am pleased for the portrait of the Last of the Few, John Hemingway, to be a legacy for the public in John’s native Ireland.
“It’s especially meaningful this portrait will live in Dublin as it was John’s home and held in great affection.
“This portrait serves as both a record of remarkable life and a testament to the rich personality beyond the uniform.”
Brenda Malone, curator of Irish Military History, added: “We are delighted to accept this generous gift from Dan, and are particularly happy to record John Hemingway’s story, through his portrait, with us.
“The National Museum collects and preserves the history of Irishmen and women’s experience of military service around the world, especially in times of conflict.
“John’s story stands as a representation for the many Irish people who served in the Royal Air Force during WWII.
“His portrait and history will form a valuable part of our collections which we hold in trust for the Irish people.”
(PA/London) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
