Profession: RAF Pilot

Biography: Guy Penrose Gibson was a British bomber pilot in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War. He was the first Commanding Officer of No. 617 Squadron, leading the "Dam Busters" raid in 1943, which breached two large dams in the Ruhr area of Germany. Gibson was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration for valor. Over his career, he completed over 170 war operations before his death at age 26.

Born in Simla, British India, Gibson's early life was marked by his parents' separation when he was six. He was educated in England, starting school at West Cornwall College before moving to London. He attended St Edward's School, Oxford, where he developed interests in science, photography, and literature.

Gibson's military career began with his training at the Bristol Flying School and RAF Uxbridge. He joined No. 83 (Bomber) Squadron, flying Hawker Hinds and later Handley Page Hampdens. Gibson distinguished himself as a skilled and courageous pilot, leading to his assignment to No. 29 Squadron in Fighter Command.

During his time with No. 106 Squadron in Bomber Command, Gibson led several significant operations, including raids on Le Creusot and the Ruhr dams. His leadership in the Dam Busters raid cemented his reputation as an exceptional military leader. Gibson's final operational tour was with No. 617 Squadron, where he planned and executed the famed Operation Chastise against the German dams.

Gibson's life was cut short in 1944 when he died in a plane crash during a mission over Germany.

Born: August 12, 1918
Birthplace: Simla, India

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Horse
Star Sign: Leo

Died: September 19, 1944 (aged 26)
Cause of Death: Killed in action over Germany

Flying Career

  • 1943-05-16 Operation Chastise: No. 617 Squadron RAF begins the famous Dambusters Raid, bombing the Möhne and Eder dams in the Ruhr valley with bouncing bombs
  • 1943-06-22 617 Squadron (Dambusters) attends investiture at Buckingham Palace; Commanding Officer Guy Gibson awarded the Victoria Cross

Personal Life

  • 1940-11-23 RAF pilot Guy Gibson (22) weds show dancer and actress Eve Moore in Penarth’s Anglican Church

References


Famous Aviators

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