Sri Lanka, Aug. 20 -- Whilst engaging in my morning walk at a playground, I came across a smart tall gentleman. His stature resonated a military background. Being curious, I popped the question "Are you retired from the Forces?" The old man smiled and said "Yes. I worked in the Royal Ceylon Air Force."

Two days later, I visited the residence of Ivor Malcolm Kwesius, one of the last-surviving burghers of "vintage Ceylon" who served in the Royal Ceylon Air Force (RCyAF). At 73 years, he has a good memory and said, "Son, I was born in March 1947. Ceylon was so different then. I completed my schooling at Arethusa College, Colombo-6. We lived in Dehiwela. I had applied to join the Navy and Army. One night, I heard an announcement in the Radio...