Vera Lynn, ‘We’ll Meet Again’ World War II sweetheart singer, dies at 103

Vera Lynn, one of the world’s most famous singers during World War II, has died at the age of 103. Her rendition of We’ll Meet Again became an anthem for hope during World War Two and staple of wartime movies.

Her family confirmed she passed away this morning while surrounded by those close to her.

“The family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of one of Britain’s best-loved entertainers at the age of 103,” a statement said.

READ: When did World War II really start?

“Dame Vera Lynn, who lived in Ditchling, East Sussex, passed away earlier today, 18th June 2020, surrounded by her close family.”

The singer and actress, dubbed the Forces’ Sweetheart, rose to fame during the second World War.

Lynn is best known for hits such as We’ll Meet Again, her rendition of which was hugely popular during the war. She was also an accomplished gospel artist, releasing several purely gospel albums, a fact that has been missed in reports of death.

As she turned 100 in 2017, she looked back on her life. She established the Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity in 2001. And she said it is her charity work – not her wartime bravery – for which she wants to be remembered.

“I’d love it to be my legacy,” she said. “I’ve never considered my actions as courageous. I was just doing my job.”

Lynn released her first single Up the Wooden Hill to Bedfordshire in 1936. Her other songs also include Sweetheart, Dancing with Tears in My Eyes, The White Cliffs of Dover and Rose of England.

At the start of the wartime, she began singing for people sheltering in air raid shelters before recording her version of We’ll Meet Again in 1939.

After topping a poll of British servicemen to find their favorite performer, she became known as the Forces’ Sweetheart

–Dwight Widaman and Wire Services