Lot 219
Sgt R GIBSON 97 Sqdn PATHFINDERS RAF's EPHEMERA.
Ronald Gibson was a Flt Engineer who after a crash landing returning from a Bombing Mission was so badly hurt, he became one of the famous 'Guinea Pigs.'
Whilst on a raid to Dortmund 4/5th May 1943, the plane sustained damage (Flak) to the fuel tank. Successfully returning to England and her home base, she was diverted to Waterbeach due to fog. After a first aborted attempt Sgt A Reilly burnt off the fuel and tried again. This time she overshot and collided with a Stirling Bomber, killing Sgt Reilly and throwing Sgt Gibson through the front of the plane. Badly burnt and battered he never flew on operations again.
Two E brevets, his Pathfinder Association card Member 1180, August 1946. His hand written note of the disaster, also the raid that night. A miniature photograph and newspaper cuttings of Sgt Gibson, etc. His Flying Clothing Card, listing his Irvin Jacket etc. His Pathfinders tie pin, original named Valise, etc
He came from Clitheroe, Lancs. Photocopies of missions and the crash are with the items.
