Portrait of last Battle of Britain pilot handed over at National Museum of Ireland

Group Captain John 'Paddy' Hemingway DFC celebrated his 105th birthday and the unveiling of portraits reflecting his life by British artist Dan Llywelyn Hall at the British Embassy in Dublin in 2024. He died in March this year. 

A portrait of the last Battle of Britain pilot, John "Paddy" Hemingway, was 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 British 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 Gallery.

The portrait, unveiled by Mr Hemingway at the British Embassy in Dublin last year marking his 105th birthday, was painted by Welsh artist Dan Llywelyn Hall, 44.

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He was the last living pilot from the Battle of Britain and would have been 106 on July 17.

Mr Llywelyn Hall is known for numerous portraits, such as the British Queen, Shane MacGowan, Amy Winehouse and other public figures.

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.

In this photo provided by the UK Ministry of Defence, John 'Paddy' Hemingway, the last surviving pilot of the iconic Battle of Britain, poses in front of a Hurricane on July 22, 2022. 

"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, said: "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."