History of Vera Lynn in Timeline

Dame Vera Lynn, fondly known as the "Forces' Sweetheart," was an English singer celebrated for her uplifting performances during World War II. Her wartime concerts for troops stationed in Egypt, India, and Burma, organized through ENSA, cemented her iconic status. Lynn's most beloved songs, such as "We'll Meet Again," "(There'll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs of Dover," and "There'll Always Be an England," resonated deeply with wartime audiences and remain enduring classics.

1913: Marriage of Vera Lynn's Parents

Vera Lynn's parents, Bertram Samuel Welch and Anne "Annie" Martin, were married in 1913.

March 1917: Birth and Early Life

Vera Lynn was born in East Ham, Essex, in March 1917. Her father, Bertram Samuel Welch, was a plumber, and her mother, Anne "Annie" Martin Welch, was a dressmaker.

1919: Vera Lynn's Childhood Illness

At two years old, Vera Lynn battled a severe case of diphtheritic croup in 1919, leading to a three-month isolation period in the hospital. This experience led to her mother becoming very protective.

1933: Vera Lynn's Early Career

Eleven-year-old Vera Lynn, already a seasoned performer, was discovered by Howard Baker, who invited her to join his band in 1933.

1934: Vera Lynn's Brief Stint with Billy Cotton

In 1934, Vera Lynn briefly toured with Billy Cotton's band after being recruited by him.

February 1935: Vera Lynn's First Recording

Vera Lynn made her first record on February 17, 1935, singing "It's Home".

August 1935: Vera Lynn's Radio Debut

Vera Lynn made her first radio appearance on August 21, 1935, with the Joe Loss Orchestra.

October 1935: Solo Recording Debut

Vera Lynn embarked on her recording career in October 1935 with the song "The General's Fast Asleep," a pivotal step towards her successful journey in music.

1936: Vera Lynn's First Solo Record

Vera Lynn released her debut solo record, "Up the Wooden Hill to Bedfordshire", on the Crown label in 1936. The label was later acquired by Decca Records in 1938.

1937: Vera Lynn Tours with Bert Ambrose

From 1937 to 1940, Vera Lynn toured with Bert Ambrose and his octet, performing for the BBC and Radio Luxembourg.

1937: Early Recordings with Rex Label

In 1937, Vera Lynn's early recordings were released on the UK-based Rex label, expanding her reach and introducing her music to a wider audience.

1937: Vera Lynn Joins the Ambrose Band

Vera Lynn joined the Ambrose band in 1937 and remained a member until 1940.

1938: Crown Label Acquired by Decca Records

Decca Records acquired the Crown label, to which Vera Lynn was signed, in 1938.

1938: Purchased a House in Barking

Vera Lynn bought a house at 24 Upney Lane in Barking in 1938.

1938: Decca Label Acquisition and Continued Recordings

Vera Lynn's recording contract transitioned to Decca Records in 1938 after they took over the Crown and Rex labels, marking a significant step in her career.

September 1939: Recording of "We'll Meet Again"

In September 1939, Vera Lynn recorded "We'll Meet Again," a song that would become deeply intertwined with her legacy and provide comfort during World War II.

1939: Vera Lynn Records "We'll Meet Again"

Vera Lynn made her first recording of the iconic song "We'll Meet Again," written by Ross Parker and Hughie Charles, in 1939. She was accompanied by Arthur Young on the Novachord.

July 1940: Vera Lynn: "The Forces' Sweetheart"

A Daily Express poll revealed Vera Lynn as the favorite musical artist among British servicemen, earning her the nickname "the Forces' Sweetheart." On July 1, 1940, Lynn launched her solo career at the New Hippodrome in Coventry.

August 1940: Vera Lynn in "Applesauce!"

Vera Lynn began performing in the revue "Applesauce!" alongside Max Miller at the Holborn Empire in August 1940.

September 1940: Bombing Interrupts "Applesauce!"

The run of "Applesauce!" was cut short in September 1940 when a bomb destroyed the Holborn Empire theatre.

1940: Vera Lynn's Departure from Bert Ambrose's Band

Vera Lynn concluded her time with Bert Ambrose's band in 1940.

1940: Vera Lynn Goes Solo

Vera Lynn embarked on her solo career in 1940 after leaving the Ambrose band.

March 1941: "Applesauce!" Resumes at the London Palladium

The revue "Applesauce!" resumed its run at the London Palladium in March 1941.

July 1941: Vera Lynn's Appendectomy

Vera Lynn had to temporarily step away from "Applesauce!" in July 1941 to undergo an appendectomy.

November 1941: Vera Lynn's "Sincerely Yours" Premieres

Vera Lynn's radio show, "Sincerely Yours," debuted on November 9, 1941. The 30-minute program, broadcasted weekly at 9:30 p.m., featured messages for British troops stationed abroad.

1941: Marriage to Harry Lewis

Vera Lynn married Harry Lewis, a clarinetist and saxophonist, in 1941. They had met two years prior while both were part of Ambrose's orchestra.

February 1942: Fall of Singapore Impacts "Sincerely Yours"

Following the fall of Singapore in February 1942, Vera Lynn's radio program "Sincerely Yours" faced concerns that its sentimental nature might demoralize British troops.

March 1942: "Sincerely Yours" Taken Off Air

Vera Lynn's "Sincerely Yours" was temporarily removed from the air on March 22, 1942, out of concern that its sentimental nature might undermine the morale of British soldiers. The program was replaced with "more traditionally martial classical music."

1942: Beginning of Japanese Occupation of Burma

The Japanese occupation of Burma during World War II began in 1942 and lasted until 1945. This period coincided with Vera Lynn's wartime activities and contributions.

1942: Start of Wartime Film Appearances

Vera Lynn began appearing in wartime-themed films in 1942, marking a significant period in her career.

1942: Recordings with Mantovani and His Orchestra

Vera Lynn's collaborations with Mantovani and His Orchestra in 1942 resulted in notable recordings that showcased her vocal abilities with a renowned orchestra.

October 1943: Return of Vera Lynn to the Airwaves

After an 18-month hiatus, Vera Lynn returned to the BBC's Forces program on October 31, 1943, with her new show, "It's Time for Vera Lynn," accompanied by Peter Yorke and His Orchestra.

1943: Release of "We'll Meet Again" and "Rhythm Serenade"

In 1943, Vera Lynn starred in two films: "We'll Meet Again," based on her life story, and "Rhythm Serenade," where she played a school teacher organizing a nursery during the war.

March 1944: Vera Lynn Entertains Troops in Bengal

Vera Lynn traveled to Shamshernagar airfield in Bengal in March 1944 to entertain troops ahead of the Battle of Kohima.

1944: Continued Japanese Occupation of Burma

The year 1944 marked a period of continued Japanese occupation in Burma during World War II, a conflict in which Vera Lynn played a significant role in boosting morale.

1944: Release of "One Exciting Night"

Vera Lynn starred in the musical comedy "One Exciting Night" in 1944, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer during the war.

1945: End of World War II

World War II ended in 1945, marking a significant period in history, including Vera Lynn's impact during the war years.

March 1946: Birth of Daughter, Virginia

Vera Lynn and Harry Lewis welcomed their daughter, Virginia Penelope Anne Lewis, in March 1946.

February 1947: Return to Showbusiness

Despite wanting to focus on family, Vera Lynn returned to showbusiness with a new radio show, "Vera Lynn Sings," on BBC's Light Programme in February 1947.

1948: US Success during Musicians' Strike

Vera Lynn's records were strategically promoted in the US during the 1948 musicians' strike, leading to her US Top Ten hit "You Can't Be True, Dear."

1949: BBC Radio Show Cancellation and Move to Radio Luxembourg

In 1949, the BBC dropped Lynn's radio show, deeming her style outdated. Undeterred, she began making shows for Radio Luxembourg.

1950: Harry Lewis Becomes Vera Lynn's Manager

Harry Lewis transitioned from his own music career to become Vera Lynn's manager before 1950.

1951: First Royal Variety Performance

Vera Lynn's first appearance at the Royal Variety Performance in 1951 marked the beginning of her numerous appearances at this prestigious event.

April 1952: London Laughs Revue Debut

Vera Lynn joined the London Laughs revue at the Adelphi Theatre in April 1952, further solidifying her presence in entertainment.

November 1952: International Success with "Auf Wiederseh'n, Sweetheart"

Vera Lynn achieved international acclaim in November 1952 when "Auf Wiederseh'n, Sweetheart" became the first record by a British artist to top the US charts.

1952: US Chart Success with "Auf Wiederseh'n Sweetheart"

Vera Lynn made history in 1952 by becoming the first British artist to achieve a number-one single in the US with "Auf Wiederseh'n Sweetheart."

1953: Vera Lynn's "We'll Meet Again" Featured in "Dr. Strangelove"

Stanley Kubrick's film "Dr. Strangelove" (1964) uses Vera Lynn's 1953 version of "We'll Meet Again" during the film's closing sequence depicting nuclear explosions.

1953: Vera Lynn Founds SOS Cerebral Palsy Charity

Vera Lynn established the charity SOS (The Stars Organisation for Spastics) in 1953, dedicated to supporting individuals with cerebral palsy. She served as its chairperson.

1953: Vera Lynn Re-records "We'll Meet Again"

Vera Lynn recorded "We'll Meet Again" for a second time in 1953, this time joined by members of the British Armed Forces.

February 1954: Conclusion of London Laughs Revue and Success of "My Son, My Son"

February 1954 marked the end of Lynn's run in the London Laughs Revue. This year also saw the success of her number-one hit "My Son, My Son."

1954: Release of "Vera Lynn's Party Sing Song" EP

Vera Lynn's popularity continued with the release of the EP "Vera Lynn's Party Sing Song" in 1954, showcasing her versatility and appeal to a broad audience.

1955: Death of Vera Lynn's Father

Vera Lynn's father, Bertram Samuel Welch, passed away in 1955.

1956: Television Debut and BBC Contract

In 1956, Vera Lynn embraced the rising medium of television with her first series for Associated-Rediffusion and signed a two-year contract with the BBC.

October 1957: First Appearance on "This Is Your Life"

Vera Lynn's first appearance on the television show "This Is Your Life" took place in October 1957, when Eamonn Andrews surprised her at the BBC Television Theatre.

1957: Third Royal Variety Performance

Vera Lynn's third appearance at the Royal Variety Performance in 1957 solidified her stature as a respected and beloved entertainer.

1960: Move to EMI Records

After 25 years with Decca Records, Vera Lynn joined EMI in 1960, marking a significant shift in her recording career.

1960: Fourth Royal Variety Performance

Vera Lynn graced the Royal Variety Performance stage for the fourth time in 1960, further demonstrating her enduring popularity and royal recognition.

1960: Signing with MGM Records

Vera Lynn signed with US-based MGM Records in 1960, signifying a new chapter in her recording career and expanding her international reach.

1962: Recording for the Musical "Blitz!"

Vera Lynn recorded Lionel Bart's "The Day After Tomorrow" for the musical "Blitz!" in 1962, her voice becoming a part of the theatrical experience.

1962: Release of "Hits of the Blitz"

Vera Lynn revisited her iconic wartime songs with the release of the album "Hits of the Blitz" in 1962, reminding listeners of her impact during a significant period.

1967: Release of "It Hurts To Say Goodbye"

Vera Lynn's recording of "It Hurts To Say Goodbye" in 1967 achieved Billboard Easy Listening chart success, showcasing her enduring appeal.

1972: BBC Anniversary Performances

Vera Lynn was a key performer in the BBC's 50th-anniversary program, "Fifty Years of Music," and appeared on the "Morecambe & Wise Christmas Show" in 1972.

1974: Vera Lynn's Burma Front Visit Featured in "The World at War"

The British television documentary series "The World at War" (1974), narrated by Laurence Olivier, featured Vera Lynn's visit to the Burma front during World War II. A brief interview with her is included in Episode 14, "It's A Lovely Day Tomorrow: Burma 1942–1944".

1974: Release of "Vera Lynn Remembers – The World at War"

Vera Lynn's album "Vera Lynn Remembers – The World at War," released in 1974, offered a poignant reflection on her music's role during a turbulent historical period.

1974: Interview for "The World at War"

Vera Lynn's wartime contributions were highlighted in a 1974 interview for the documentary series "The World at War," showcasing her impact on morale during a challenging time.

1975: Publication of Memoir "Vocal Refrain"

Vera Lynn published her first memoir, titled "Vocal Refrain," in 1975.

1975: Fifth Royal Variety Performance

Vera Lynn's fifth appearance at the Royal Variety Performance in 1975 illustrated her sustained presence in British entertainment across decades.

1975: Death of Vera Lynn's Mother

Vera Lynn's mother, Anne "Annie" Martin Welch, passed away in 1975.

1976: Establishment of the Vera Lynn Charity Breast Cancer Research Trust

The Vera Lynn Charity Breast Cancer Research Trust was founded in 1976, with Vera Lynn as its chairperson and later its president.

1976: Hosting "A Jubilee of Music"

Vera Lynn hosted the BBC's "A Jubilee of Music" in 1976, celebrating the Queen's Silver Jubilee and highlighting her enduring presence in British music.

1976: Vera Lynn Receives Honorary Doctorate of Laws

Vera Lynn received an honorary Doctorate of Laws from Memorial University of Newfoundland in 1976.

1976: Collaboration with Norman Newell on "Christmas with Vera Lynn"

Vera Lynn's 1976 album, "Christmas with Vera Lynn," marked her final collaboration with producer Norman Newell, concluding a successful partnership.

1977: "Vera Lynn in Nashville" TV Special

A testament to her adaptability, Vera Lynn presented a TV special in 1977 to launch her album "Vera Lynn in Nashville," showcasing pop and country music.

1977: Final Recordings with EMI Records

Vera Lynn concluded her time with EMI Records in 1977, marking the end of a significant chapter in her recording career with the label.

December 1978: Second Appearance on "This Is Your Life"

Vera Lynn was surprised by Eamonn Andrews for a second time on "This Is Your Life" in December 1978 at the Café Royal, London. The episode aired on January 1, 1979.

1978: Vera Lynn Receives Honorary Freedom of the City of London

In 1978, Vera Lynn was awarded the Honorary Freedom of the City of London.

January 1979: Broadcast of Second "This Is Your Life" Episode

Vera Lynn's second appearance on "This Is Your Life" was broadcasted in January 1979.

1979: Pink Floyd Releases "Vera" on "The Wall" Album

Pink Floyd's 1979 album, "The Wall," features a song titled "Vera," referencing Vera Lynn and her song "We'll Meet Again."

1980: Pink Floyd Uses "We'll Meet Again" in "The Wall" Live Performances

Pink Floyd incorporated Vera Lynn's "We'll Meet Again" as an intro for their live performances of "The Wall" in 1980.

1981: Pink Floyd Continues Using "We'll Meet Again" in "The Wall" Live Performances

Pink Floyd's use of "We'll Meet Again" as an intro for "The Wall" live shows continued into 1981, as heard on the album "Is There Anybody Out There? The Wall Live 1980–81."

1982: Gary Numan References Vera Lynn in "War Songs"

Gary Numan's song "War Songs" from his 1982 album "I, Assassin" includes the lyrics "Old men love war songs / Love Vera Lynn / Old men love war songs / Now I'm Vera Lynn," referencing the singer.

1982: Vera Lynn's Recording Featured in "Pink Floyd – The Wall" Film

The 1982 film adaptation of Pink Floyd's "The Wall" opens with Vera Lynn's recording of "The Little Boy that Santa Claus Forgot."

1982: Release of "I Love This Land"

Vera Lynn's patriotic single "I Love This Land" was released in 1982, commemorating the end of the Falklands War and resonating with national sentiment.

August 1985: Vera Lynn Performs at Crystal Palace Bowl Benefit Concert

Vera Lynn shared the stage with Hawkwind, Doctor and the Medics, and other rock bands at a benefit concert for Pete Townshend's Double-O anti-heroin charity at Crystal Palace Bowl in August 1985.

1985: Vera Lynn Receives the Burma Star

In recognition of her service entertaining British troops in Burma during World War II, Vera Lynn was awarded the Burma Star in 1985.

1986: Sixth Royal Variety Performance

Vera Lynn continued to captivate audiences with her sixth appearance at the Royal Variety Performance in 1986, highlighting her enduring appeal across generations.

1989: Publication of Memoir "We'll Meet Again"

In 1989, Vera Lynn published her second memoir, titled "We'll Meet Again".

1990: Seventh Royal Variety Performance

Vera Lynn's seventh appearance at the Royal Variety Performance in 1990 solidified her legacy as a cherished performer who transcended eras.

1991: Final Recordings for Gulf Trust

In 1991, Vera Lynn dedicated her final recordings to the Gulf Trust, using her platform to support a cause and leaving a legacy of philanthropy.

1992: Vera Lynn Receives Honorary Master of Music Degree

The University of London awarded Vera Lynn an honorary Master of Music (M.Mus.) degree in 1992.

1995: Performance at VE Day Golden Jubilee

Vera Lynn's performance outside Buckingham Palace for the VE Day Golden Jubilee in 1995 solidified her status as a national treasure and icon of wartime resilience.

1998: Death of Harry Lewis

Harry Lewis, Vera Lynn's husband, passed away in 1998.

2000: Vera Lynn Wins "Spirit of the 20th Century" Award

Vera Lynn won the "Spirit of the 20th Century" Award in 2000, securing 21% of the votes in a nationwide poll.

2000: Vera Lynn: Icon of the 20th Century

Vera Lynn's contributions to wartime morale earned her recognition as the Briton who best embodied the spirit of the 20th century in 2000.

2002: President of The Dame Vera Lynn Trust for Children with Cerebral Palsy

In 2002, Vera Lynn became the president of The Dame Vera Lynn Trust for Children with Cerebral Palsy, a charity dedicated to supporting children with cerebral palsy.

2005: Vera Lynn's Surprise Appearance at UK's VE Day Ceremony

In 2005, Vera Lynn made a surprise appearance at the United Kingdom's VE Day ceremony in Trafalgar Square, London. She praised veterans and urged the younger generation to remember their sacrifice. She also briefly sang "We'll Meet Again", marking her final vocal performance at a VE Day anniversary event.

September 2008: Launch of "The Times of My Life" Website

Vera Lynn helped launch a new social history recording website called "The Times of My Life" at the Cabinet War Rooms in London in September 2008.

2008: Patron of the Forces Literary Organisation Worldwide for ALL

Vera Lynn became the patron of the charitable Forces Literary Organisation Worldwide for ALL in 2008.

February 2009: Vera Lynn Sues British National Party

Vera Lynn sued the British National Party (BNP) in February 2009 for using her song "The White Cliffs of Dover" without permission on an anti-immigration album. Her lawyer argued that the use of her song falsely implied her endorsement of the party's views.

September 2009: Vera Lynn Becomes Oldest Living Artist to Top UK Album Chart

At 92, Vera Lynn became the oldest living artist to achieve a No. 1 album on the UK charts in September 2009. Her compilation album, "We'll Meet Again: The Very Best of Vera Lynn," surpassed the Arctic Monkeys and the Beatles, breaking Bob Dylan's previous record.

2009: Vera Lynn Tops UK Albums Chart

At the age of 92, Vera Lynn became the oldest living artist to reach number one on the UK Albums Chart with her compilation album "We'll Meet Again: The Very Best of Vera Lynn" in 2009.

2009: Publication of Autobiography "Some Sunny Day"

Vera Lynn published her autobiography, "Some Sunny Day", in 2009. This was her third memoir, following "Vocal Refrain" (1975) and "We'll Meet Again" (1989).

2010: Patron of the Dover War Memorial Project and Help 4 Forgotten Allies

In 2010, Vera Lynn assumed the role of patron for two organizations: the Dover War Memorial Project and the British charity Projects to Support Refugees from Burma/Help 4 Forgotten Allies.

2013: Campaign Against Pigeon Racing with PETA

Vera Lynn joined forces with PETA in 2013 to campaign against pigeon racing, condemning the sport as "utterly cruel".

August 2014: Vera Lynn Opposes Scottish Independence

Vera Lynn joined nearly 200 public figures in signing a letter to "The Guardian" in August 2014, opposing Scottish independence ahead of the September referendum.

2014: Release of "Vera Lynn: National Treasure"

Vera Lynn released the collection "Vera Lynn: National Treasure" in 2014.

May 2015: Vera Lynn Interviewed for VE Day 70th Anniversary

Although unable to attend the VE Day 70th anniversary celebration in London, Vera Lynn was interviewed at her home by the Daily Mirror in May 2015.

March 2017: Release of "Vera Lynn 100" and "Her Greatest from Abbey Road"

Three days before her 100th birthday, "Vera Lynn 100," an LP featuring re-orchestrated versions of Lynn's songs and duets with artists like Alfie Boe, was released. Additionally, Parlophone released "Her Greatest from Abbey Road," a collection of her recordings from Abbey Road Studios, including previously unreleased tracks.

October 2017: Vera Lynn - Best-Selling Female Artist in the UK

By October 2017, Vera Lynn became the UK's best-selling female artist of the year, outselling contemporary artists such as Dua Lipa and Lana Del Rey.

2017: Vera Lynn's Centenary and Chart Success

Vera Lynn celebrated her 100th birthday in 2017 and released the compilation album "Vera Lynn 100." It reached the top 3, making her the first centenarian performer to have a Top 10 album.

2018: Anthony Green Releases Song Titled "Vera Lynn"

Anthony Green released a song titled "Vera Lynn" on his 2018 album "Would You Still Be in Love." The song references Lynn's iconic songs "We'll Meet Again" and "A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square."

2018: Steam Locomotive and Woolwich Ferry Boat Named After Vera Lynn

In 2018, a preserved WD Austerity 2-10-0 steam locomotive at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway was named "Dame Vera Lynn." Additionally, one of two new boats for the Woolwich Ferry service, delivered in autumn 2018, was named in her honor.

2018: Vera Lynn Receives Nominations and Lifetime Achievement Award at Classic Brit Awards

Vera Lynn received nominations for Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year at the 2018 Classic Brit Awards. She was also honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

2018: Vera Lynn Receives Outstanding Contribution to Music Award

Vera Lynn was honored with the Outstanding Contribution to Music award at the Classic Brit Awards in 2018.

January 2019: Commissioning of Vera Lynn Portrait

The London Mint Office commissioned Norwegian artist Ross Kolby to paint a portrait of Vera Lynn in January 2019.

January 2020: Unveiling of Vera Lynn Portrait at Royal Albert Hall

A portrait of Vera Lynn, painted by Ross Kolby and gifted by the London Mint Office, was unveiled at the Royal Albert Hall in January 2020. Lynn's daughter and "Britain's Got Talent" winner Colin Thackery were present at the unveiling.

April 2020: Queen Elizabeth II Echoes "We'll Meet Again" and Virtual Duet with Katherine Jenkins

Queen Elizabeth II used the phrase "We'll Meet Again" from Vera Lynn's famous song in a televised address about the COVID-19 pandemic in April 2020. Additionally, for the 75th anniversary of VE Day, Lynn and Katherine Jenkins performed a virtual duet at the empty Royal Albert Hall due to the pandemic.

June 2020: Death of Vera Lynn

Dame Vera Lynn passed away in June 2020, at the age of 103.

July 2020: Military Funeral and Tributes

Vera Lynn was laid to rest in July 2020 with a military funeral in East Sussex. The procession traveled from Ditchling to the Woodvale Crematorium in Brighton, accompanied by representatives from different branches of the military and marked by public displays of respect, including poppies and projections on the White Cliffs of Dover. A Battle of Britain Spitfire flypast also honored her on the 80th anniversary of the battle's start.

2020: Vera Lynn's Passing and Musical Legacy

Vera Lynn's music career spanned an impressive 96 years until her death in 2020.

June 2021: Wildflower Meadow on White Cliffs of Dover Named After Vera Lynn

A wildflower meadow on the White Cliffs of Dover was named in honor of Vera Lynn in June 2021.

March 2022: Thanksgiving Service at Westminster Abbey

A thanksgiving service in honor of Vera Lynn was held at Westminster Abbey in March 2022.

July 2022: Plans for The Forces' Sweetheart And Wartime Entertainers' Memorial

In July 2022, plans were announced for The Forces' Sweetheart And Wartime Entertainers' Memorial, a project that evolved from an initial campaign to erect a statue of Vera Lynn by the White Cliffs of Dover. This memorial, intended to honor Lynn and other wartime entertainers, is planned for the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

2024: PETA Names Pigeon 'Vera' in Her Honor

In recognition of Vera Lynn's campaigning efforts against pigeon racing, PETA named one of the King's racing pigeons 'Vera' after acquiring it at an auction in 2024.