BBC Breakfast host announces tragic death news in moving tribute to 'icon'

A BBC Breakfast host announced tragic death news in a moving tribute to an "icon" on Sunday (August 17).

During today's edition of the BBC morning show, presenters Ben Boulos and Luxmy Gopal brought viewers up to date with the latest headlines from across Britain and globally.

They were accompanied in the studio by Helen Willetts, who provided regular weather updates, whilst Hugh Ferris delivered the sports round-up.

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Later in the programme, Ben revealed the passing of Britain's final surviving World War Two Victoria Cross holder, John Cruickshank.

"Flight Lieutenant John Cruickshank earned the honour for an attack on a German U-Boat while piloting a Catalina flying boat in June 1944," Ben said, reports the Express.

The 105-year-old from Aberdeen was the last to pass away of 181 individuals who were awarded the nation's highest military decoration for their actions during the war.

A special feature by BBC correspondent Katie Hunter was subsequently broadcast, which examined John's contributions during the Second World War.

"When Flight Lieutenant John Cruickshank was awarded the Victoria Cross, he was praised for his determination, fortitude and devotion to duty," Katie explained.

"In 1944, Flight Lieutenant Cruickshank was the captain of a Catalina flying boat. While engaging a German U-boat over the Norweigan sea, he suffered 72 injuries. Despite that, he and his crew destroyed the submarine. His navigator, John Dixon, was killed."

She went on to say: "John Cruickshank was a private man. In a 2008 interview with the BBC, he played down his actions."

In the pre-recorded clip, John stated: "You don't get involved in that kind of thing thinking of any decorations or any recognition of any type. It was regarded as duty."

Last year, a Catalina plane flew over John's home to commemorate 80 years since he was awarded the Victoria Cross. He marked the anniversary privately.

John's friend of three decades, former RAF group captain John Kemp, said: "A very stoic aviator. A great RAF icon... He was an amazing character. Very quiet, a private person, but [he had an] excellent, terrific sense of humour. Great character."

Katie concluded: "A modest man, a military man. A man whose actions are etched in history."

John's family announced that he passed away last week and a private funeral would be held.

BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One at 6am