An outstanding RAF Second World War Air Gunners Logbook

An outstanding RAF Second World War Air Gunners Logbook to J Giddy, who after completing one operational tour volunteered for another and was involved in S.O.E drops. Sold by order of the family. Gibson first flew as an Observer on Anson's from November 1941 until February 1942. He then trained as an air gunner and was posted to 57 Squadron for an operational tour in January 1943. The Squadron was equipped with Lancaster Bombers. Gibson's tour wasn't without incident, on 8th January 1943 over Duisberg his aircraft was damaged at the target, on the 23rd over Essen an engine fire developed after being hit by AA fire. On 12th / 13th of March 1943, he claimed a fighter 'damaged', Gibson completed his first tour on July 8th and was given a rest period. In May 1944 he joined 81 Operational Training Unit in preparation for his return to Ops. Posted to 196 Squadron, equipped with Stirling bombers in August 1944, his aircraft towed Gliders to Arnhem and dropped supplies during 'Operation Market Garden'. Interestingly Gibson and his crew were involved in a number of operations to occupied Norway. His logbook notes: 8th November 1944 'S.O.E. Popex V' Near Rotterdam Light Flak' 20th February 1945 ' Pommell 16 S.O.E' 22nd February 1945 'Bit 20 S.O.E Norway' 30th March 1945 ' S.O.E Norway Cropper 49' - attacked 3 times by ME110 S.O.E being the Special Operations Executive, it's likely they were dropping supplies to resistance groups. On 24th March 1945, his crew took part in 'Operation Varsity' towing a gilder, he notes ' A marvellous sight' Gibson finished the war having done 41 Ops over Europe. With ten original photographs of the recipient and aircraft.